Arturo Rios hat
Photography by Omar Cruz

Spring’s Hats: Sculptural Silhouettes and Artful Details for Hats in the Garden

From bold fascinators to striking wide-brims, statement hats bring artful elegance to Naples' most fashionable spring event.

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Southwest Florida's social season calls for a parade of extraordinary headwear, with architectural design meeting artisanal craftsmanship. As Hats in the Garden approaches on March 28, we showcase standout millinery from international designers, including some available through local retailers. These statement pieces—ranging from feathered fantasies to modern interpretations of classic shapes—prove that the right hat isn't merely an accessory but a wearable artwork commanding attention.

A go-to for Naples Botanical Garden’s Hats in the Garden attendees, Marilyn’s, on Fifth Avenue South, sources from top European millinery brands, like Mademoiselle Chapeaux, whose pillbox hat plays with proportions to transform the familiar bow into something fantastical. Available through Marilyn’s in Naples. The model also wears sapphire and diamond drop earrings from Wish Fine Jewelry; dress by Michael Costello. 

London-based Merve Bayindir crafts pieces from sustainably sourced sinamay or felt, using traditional blocking techniques. Her pieces are available through Marilyn’s. The model also wears diamond earrings by Patricia Robalino Designs. 

Arturo Rios reimagines showgirl glamour, with faux pampas grass architecturally shaped to resemble lush ostrich feathers. Stark black plumes keep the look from reading campy. Available through the designer’s website. The model also wears a dress by Idan; Wolford bodysuit; jewelry from Wish Fine Jewelry. 

 Zeil Millinery reconceptualizes classic shapes through a modernist lens. Here, a pristine wool cloche becomes a canvas for an avant-garde cage hat. Available through the designer’s social media. The model also wears ruby and diamond studded earrings from Wish Fine Jewelry; jacket from Wade Allyn. 

Christine A. Moore elevates the basic fascinator with her mastery of traditional materials—each petal is hand-cut and shaped from silk, while a precisely formed horsehair twist traces a delicate sweeping pattern. Her designs are available through Marissa Collections in Naples. The model also wears a dress from Maison Tai; ring from Wish Fine Jewelry.

Rebecca Couture, whose pieces are Royal Ascot fixtures, updates the wide-brimmed silhouette and classic black-and-white palette with dramatic proportions. The pairing presents a suitable canvas for Naples’ beloved orchid to float across the crown. Available through Marilyn’s in Naples. The model also wears black diamond earrings by Patricia Robalino Designs. 

Los Angeles-based Arturo Rios, known for theatrical runway pieces worn by Lady Gaga, creates explosive drama through precisely placed feathers. Available through the designer’s website. The model also wears a Wolford bodysuit; diamond earrings from Wish Fine Jewelry. 

Photography by Omar Cruz

Styling by Veronica Porras

Shot on location at Vanderbilt Beach.

Hair and Makeup Duality Artistry.

Model Laken Romine.