Ranelle Larocque is an acclaimed hat designer who has successfully merged tradition with innovation, creating unique pieces that tell stories through each collection. Her passion for hat design stems from a deep love for craftsmanship and fashion, shaped by the diverse cultures and styles she has explored over the years.
Ranelle pays meticulous attention to detail, utilizing high-quality materials and artisanal techniques that turn each hat into a wearable work of art. Her designs range from classic to contemporary, always infused with a touch of originality that captures the essence of the wearer. With a bold and creative vision, Ranelle continues to redefine the concept of a hat, transforming it into an essential accessory for any wardrobe. We are excited to explore her creative vision, sources of inspiration, and her successful journey. Without further ado, we welcome Ranelle Larocque.
- Ranelle, it is a real pleasure to have you here with us. When did you decide to become a hat designer, and what were the motivations behind this choice?
My journey into millinery began with a deep love for hats—both wearing and collecting them. As my style and taste evolved, I noticed a gap in the market for pieces that truly expressed my unique sense of self. Motivated by a desire to fill that void and help others feel confident and beautiful, I started crafting small hairpieces and fascinators. This personal passion for headwear quickly blossomed into a rewarding career, where I now create fashion-forward pieces that allow others to express themselves and feel good about their appearance.
- Your career as a hat designer is becoming more established, with creations that have adorned prestigious events like the Royal Ascot and the Kentucky Derby. How do you infuse your personality and vision into each hat you create?
My designs are born from a place of deep passion and joy, driven by a mission to infuse the world with beauty, one whimsical hat at a time. I strive to make my creations fun and reflective of my boundless optimism. Each piece I craft is not just an accessory, but a statement that celebrates the wearer’s confidence, style, and individuality. Through my finely handcrafted millinery, I aim to help people express themselves, feel wonderful, and shine brightly in their own unique way.
- It’s interesting to know that you collaborated with landscape artist Katherine Muir Miller. Can you tell us more about this experience and how it has influenced your work?
Collaborating with Canadian landscape artist Katherine Muir Miller has been a career highlight for me. Her masterful use of color and movement has inspired me profoundly, making our collaboration a seamless and joyful experience. For our joint projects, I selected four of her breathtaking paintings to transform into wearable art. I drew from her vibrant color palette and sought to capture the dynamic movement and mood of her landscapes. As a fellow lover of the natural world, her work resonates with me on a personal level, fueling my creativity and passion. Drawing inspiration from talented Canadian artists like Katherine Muir Miller enriches my designs and connects me to a broader artistic community.
- Last February, you participated in The Queen’s Hat Exhibition in Milan. What was your experience like at such a prestigious event?
Attending The Queen’s Hat Exhibition in Milan was a life-changing experience for both me and my business, Queen Bee Millinery. Living in the small town of Perth, Ontario, Canada, the opportunity to showcase my work in Milan was a dream come true—something any designer would cherish. International events like this are crucial for highlighting the work of milliners on a global stage. Engaging with fellow milliners from around the world and discussing their techniques was invaluable, serving as a visual masterclass. This experience not only deepened my passion for millinery but also provided unprecedented exposure for my work. A simple post from the event went viral, leading to interviews and a wonderful new following. The Queen’s Hat Exhibition underscored the importance of such platforms in promoting millinery as a vibrant, contemporary art form on the international fashion scene.
- Speaking of beauty, how do you see the evolution of millinery and its place within the contemporary fashion landscape?
I believe millinery transcends mere functionality or the status of an accessory; it embodies the purest form of self-expression. Wearing a hat or headpiece should never be an afterthought. As fashion continues to evolve, the significance of millinery in the contemporary landscape becomes even more apparent. As individuals rediscover the joy of dressing for themselves, millinery is likely to experience a resurgence. The Neiman Marcus short film, which highlights millinery as a style statement, is a testament to this revival. It is essential to embrace and promote the evolution of millinery, ensuring it retains its rightful place in modern fashion.
- What does it mean for Ranelle to be part of this prestigious association, and what opportunities or advantages does her connection with the British Millinery Association offer her?
Being part of the millinery community, such as the British Millinery Association, provides invaluable support to milliners of all skill levels and fosters a sense of confidence and solidarity. Millinery is indeed a niche profession in Canada, and while we have significant home-grown talent, our collective voice often goes unheard in the broader Canadian fashion industry and among the general public. It is crucial to promote millinery as a fashion art form both within Canada and globally, to elevate its profile and appreciation. Being part of a strong millinery community has been a lifeline during the daunting early days of my business, making the journey not only possible but incredibly rewarding. By championing millinery as an art form, we can ensure that this beautiful craft garners the recognition and admiration it deserves on the world stage.
- Last question, Ranelle. What are your hopes for the future of your career and for millinery in general?
My hopes are that Canadians will come to recognize millinery as a highly skilled trade and an art form that should be embraced. As a milliner, a significant part of my role involves educating visitors to Queen Bee Millinery about the art of millinery. My ongoing passion for learning new skills—whether traditional or modern millinery techniques—fuels my conviction to grow with every collection, both as an individual and a milliner. I am optimistic about the future of millinery in fashion, believing it will play a significant role in expressing personal style and creativity. Millinery is my way of showcasing the beauty of the world around me, and I want clients to feel that same sense of wonder and enjoyment when they discover their perfect headpiece. Ultimately, I want people to dress for themselves, and I genuinely hope that includes wearing a fabulous hat!
