Black women have long held their hats in high regard, especially when wearing them to church. So in celebration of Easter Sunday this weekend, we take a look at celebs and sisters just like you rocking the best hats around.
Soul diva Aretha Franklin bow-dazzled us in this bespoke crown from Mr. Song Millinery in Detroit when she sang at the inauguration of President Obama on January 21.
NeNe Leakes of Bravo’s hit reality series “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” sports a fierce cream crown with black trim at her first annual Big Hat Brunch to benefit victims of domestic violence. Held in the Peach State, Leakes’s affair has gained national attention when the well-attended brunch appeared in an episode of “RHOA” last season.
Church is not the only place we like to showcase our millinery collections. The Kentucky Derby has long been a “who’s who” of elite sisters who want to strut their stuff in fabulous crowns.
The fabulous attorney turned television personality Star Jones strikes a pose and gives a warm smile in a wide chartreuse hat with floral trim at the Kentucky Derby.
Often, vibrant and joyous traditions conjure up great memories.
Melody Waller of Chicago remembers how her crowns of glory made her feel over the years. “Easter is always a special time for us as a family,” Waller notes. “I always had ‘Easter clothes’ and often those clothes included a hat and even gloves!”
The 2000 coffeetable book “Crowns” (Random House) by Michael Cunningham and Craig Marberry celebrates the unique relationship between Black women and their hats. Photographer Michael Cunningham beautifully captures the self-expressions of sisters of all ages—from young fly women to mature yet stylish grandmothers. Award-winning journalist Craig Marberry provides an intimate look at us and our convergence of faith and fashion that keeps the Sabbath both holy and glamorous.
Are you planning to wear a big, stylish hat to church this Sunday? Do you have a favorite memory of your mother or granny wearing hats? Please share your comments with us below.