Julep Hat Designs

08/31/2026

🎶 Workin’ 9 to 5… 🎶

Dolly Parton definitely knew what she was talking about! 😂 With just 26 days until Tampa Bay Fashion Week, my studio has been feeling a whole lot like 9 to 5… except lately it’s looking more like 9 to whenever-I-finally-put-the-hat-down! 🎩✂️

I’m working hard to meet my September 25th deadline and bring my Fashion Week collection to life, but somehow I’ve managed to sneak in a little work on my 2027 Kentucky Derby Collection along the way. 🌹🐎

Enjoy a peek at some of my latest Derby 2027 creations! There’s always another hat waiting to be made. 💕

08/14/2026

Tampa Bay Fashion Week is getting closer, and I’m still working toward completing the six designs in my collection that I’ll be presenting on exhibit! 👒✨

Here’s the very beginning of Design #4 — and yes, we’re starting from scratch.

This is a handcrafted wire percher foundation, and it’s one of those projects that reminds me that growth isn’t always comfortable. Learning new techniques, figuring things out, making mistakes and trying again are all part of becoming better at your craft.

And apparently I should have paid more attention in math class. 😂 Yes, there is MATH involved in millinery!

Today’s supplies:
✂️ Scissors
🧵 Thread
〰️ Wire
🖊️ Sharpie
📏 Measuring tape
…and LOTS of patience!

It may not look like much yet, but just wait until you see what comes from this little wire foundation. 👀

Design #4 of 6 is officially underway.

08/03/2026

I’m so excited to announce that I’ve been selected as one of only ten designers participating in Tampa Bay Fashion Week this year! I’m incredibly honored and can’t wait to share what I’ve been creating. ✨🎩

A milliner and designer of couture fascinator, Lisa Maltese of Julep Hat Designs / Julephatdesigns, is known for creating one-of-a-kind statement pieces for events like the Kentucky Derby and beyond.  
 
Lisa's handcrafted designs emphasize individuality, intricate detail, and elevated styling. Her work has been featured in fashion events, media segments, and worn at racing events worldwide, and she is featured in local and national media sharing her expertise in Derby fashion and fascinator styling. 
 
We'll be on the lookout for her creativity and style at Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2026! 
 
tampabayfashionweek fashionweektampabay fashion tampabaystyle FWTB TBFW TBFashion fashiondesigners designers

08/02/2026

A designer houndstooth skirt is getting a second life… ✂️🎩

Today, I’m transforming it into a classic pillbox hat. This is just Part 1—the base is taking shape, and the embellishments are still to come.

Follow along to see the finished design in Part 2! ✨

07/27/2026

Part 2 of my pillbox hat is here! ✨

In this video, I’m adding the millinery wire, preparing the edge, and beginning the trim. This piece is part of a very special collection I’m curating, and while I can’t reveal the full design just yet… I promise it’ll be worth the wait.

Thanks for following along behind the scenes! More to come soon. 🎩💕

07/24/2026

A little behind-the-scenes from the studio! ✨

Working on a hat embellishment for one of my future designs. Every detail is handcrafted, and it’s always exciting to see an idea start to come to life. I hope you enjoy this sneak peek—I can’t wait to share the finished piece with you!

07/22/2026

A Little Bit of Both ✨

Lately, life has been all about balance—continuing to create my Kentucky Derby designs while embracing the new skills of blocking.

Here are five of my recent designs, each reflecting this exciting season of growth. I’m grateful to keep learning, creating, and pushing my craft forward every day. 💕🎩