The world's media will be hat watching on Friday when Prince William and Kate Middleton tie the knot in one of the most anticipated weddings of modern time.
Second to Kate's dress, it's the wedding guest's glamorous headwear that will, no doubt, be the focus of attention. And designers across the UK, if not the globe, will be frantically putting the finishing touches to the headwear of invited dignitaries and celebs alike.
Milliner Philip Treacy has been commissioned to create wedding hats for members of the royal family - with bride-to-be Kate Middleton rumoured to be top of his list. Miss Middleton is expected to wear a veil during her marriage ceremony but may wear one of the Irish designer's creations at some point during her wedding day or the weekend that follows. Prince William's future mother-in-law Carole Middleton could also follow her daughter's lead.
"When people think of hats, they think of her majesty the queen," Treacy told The Associated Press. "They're exciting hats to make, because hats and royal weddings are both about magic, happiness and a sense of celebration."
His famous clients have included Madonna, Lady Gaga, Renee Zellweger, Boy George, Grace Jones, Marilyn Manson, Diana Ross and Elizabeth Hurley. Treacy's more outlandish creations have included a birdcage but he also makes more sober designs for occasions like Royal Ascot. But although the designer has been commissioned to do several of the hats for royal wedding guests - he is tightlipped about his clients.
Treacy says his creations take many weeks to make, with many pieces finished by hand. The Associated Press reported that his workshop in South London is a hive of activity, although mum's the word on how many royal or celebrity hats he is actually doing.
"We are making beautiful hats for many of the guests to wear, and I believe in hats that make the heart beat faster," Treacy said.
