Designers from around the world come to town: from March 20 to 22, Residenza Vignale hosts major exhibition dedicated to the art of the hat
Milan is preparing to become the hat capital of the world for three days. From March 20 to 22, the Vignale Residence will host the third edition of “The Queen’s Hat,” the international exhibition dedicated to the art of contemporary millinery that brings one of the most iconic accessories in fashion history back to center stage.
After the success of the first editions, the event returns with an even more international scope, transforming Milan into a meeting point for creativity, craftsmanship and stylistic research.
The event, conceived and curated by journalist and fashion manager Gabriella Chiarappa, is organized by Le Salon de la Mode in collaboration with Musikologiamo, under the patronage of the Lombardy Region and the City of Milan.
Designers from around the world
The absolute protagonist of the exhibition is the hat, an accessory that has represented elegance, identity and character for centuries.
The exhibition brings together eleven hat designers from different countries around the world-Israel, Canada, Tanzania, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, the United States, Brazil, England, and Russia-interpreting millinery that combines craftsmanship, material experimentation, and contemporary vision.
The creations on display transform the hat into a true art form: sculptural structures, innovative fabrics and sartorial details tell a creative language that combines tradition and modernity.
Patty Pravo’s hat among the exhibits
Also among the exhibits is the hat and veil dress worn by Patty Pravo on the red carpet of the 2026 Sanremo Festival, made by designer Simone Folco, a sign of fashion’s renewed attention to this iconic accessory.
Three days of meetings and master classes
During the three days, the exhibition will be accompanied by meetings and moments open to the public. These include “Shots in the Frame,” a photo set dedicated to the designers’ creations, and a masterclass on the art of wearing a hat led by image expert Pablo Ardizzone.
The exhibition itinerary will also be enriched by the presentation of Maison Lumiéra’s Seven Jewels Collection, seven fragrances inspired by precious gems, and a selection of furniture by Plinio il Giovane, excellence in handcrafted Italian design.
Roundtable discussion and awards
The opening is scheduled for Friday, March 20, at 3 p.m., followed by the panel discussion “Hats on the Move: The Evolution of a Style Icon,” dedicated to the role of the hat in fashion history.
The final day will also host an award ceremony for the designers’ creations with three awards:
- The Queen’s Hat Award
- Hat in Motion Award
- Innovation Award
Also a guest of the exhibition is BioDesign Foundation, which will present the environmental project “All Together Now – The Custodians Plastic Race,” an initiative dedicated to environmental protection conceived by founder Roberto Guerini.
Free admission
Admission to the exhibition is free, a choice designed to encourage the spread of hat culture and international dialogue between creativity and traditional craftsmanship.
Exhibition hours
Friday, March 20
2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, March 21
10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday, March 22
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
