Kathryn Lee Miller's winning creation, a 1960s helmet-style hat named “It Girl”, channelled the bold glamour of Brigitte Bardot, Peggy Moffitt, and Sophia Loren. Made from hand-dyed vintage viscose in candy pink and adorned with over 50 hours of hand beading using Malaysian jade and rose quartz, the piece exemplified modern vintage – Lee’s signature style.
The design wasn’t merely nostalgic. It celebrated an era when women redefined style and confidence.
“The ‘It Girl’ hat has a distinct helmet-like quality, but with all the glamour and sophistication of the 1960s,” she explained.
“That era represented the peak of women’s liberation and female
independence, so the ‘It Girl’ is like wearing your own piece of armour, standing out in a bold and striking way.”
Winning the award was also a full-circle personal moment. Lee started her career doing work experience at Lillian Frank’s Toorak salon, and standing on stage as the award winner that bears Frank’s name was a poignant reminder of her journey. “It felt like a beautiful, full-circle moment. Starting at Lillian Frank’s salon and winning an award in her name was incredibly meaningful,” she said.
This recognition saw Lee’s work featured in the April edition of Vogue Australia, and she attended Royal Ascot earlier this year, cementing her reputation as one of the most exciting names in millinery. From her Potts Point studio, she continues to craft bespoke pieces for clients across Australia and internationally, blending couture craftsmanship with her “modern vintage” philosophy.
For Lee, Flemington remains the stage where millinery truly shines.
“The Australian racing fashion scene has such a bold personality. It’s sophisticated but unafraid to make a statement. There’s a wonderful tradition of blending heritage with innovation, which aligns perfectly with my brand.”
And her advice for aspiring milliners? It’s as fearless as her winning look: “Push beyond your comfort zone and be authentic in your design. Don’t second guess yourself – it’s such a waste of time. And never stop learning. Every mistake is an opportunity to grow.”
With her “It Girl” moment, Kathryn Lee Miller not only secured Australia’s most prestigious millinery prize – she reminded us of racing fashion’s power to surprise and inspire, just as the rulebreakers did 60 years ago.
