This conversation is a masterclass in what Roland Barthes might’ve called “le grain de la voix” — that unmistakable texture of personal voice that makes communication more than just information. Gabrielle’s journey from literature to millinery, from stories on paper to sculpting narrative in felt and feather, beautifully proves that creativity isn’t linear — it’s a web, often stitched with invisible thread.
What strikes me most is the way hats here aren’t just fashion statements — they’re acts of semiotic rebellion. The hat pin as proto-feminist weapon! The suffragette’s hat as merchandise and message! One could write a whole cultural history of resistance through accessories. And perhaps we should.
We’ve entered an age where “content” too often overshadows craft — fast fashion’s visual noise drowning out the slow whisper of a handmade piece. But this reminds us: craft is memory, inheritance, defiance. To wear a HOOD hat is to wear intention. And to make one, as Gabrielle does, is to reclaim space for artistry in a world that often confuses speed with innovation.
I also love the refusal to obey Coco Chanel’s tired dictate about removing one accessory before leaving the house. Sometimes maximalism is truth. Sometimes more is the most honest you can be.
Thank you Tamara ❤️ Your response is pure poetry - "from stories on paper to sculpting narrative in felt and feather, beautifully proves that creativity isn’t linear — it’s a web, often stitched with invisible thread." Yes! I would LOVE to read about the cultural history of resistance through accessories - I'm very sure each period would offer a unique insight on rebellion and revolution. I've been really thinking about the role of craft recently (partly inspired by your mention of it) and how necessary it is to our existence and quality of life. There is no quality without craft, and without quality - of attention, intention, creativity - we don't have as much meaning. I love the idea of craft as memory, inheritance, defiance. Craft is an act of resistance as much as it is an act of care.
This conversation is a masterclass in what Roland Barthes might’ve called “le grain de la voix” — that unmistakable texture of personal voice that makes communication more than just information. Gabrielle’s journey from literature to millinery, from stories on paper to sculpting narrative in felt and feather, beautifully proves that creativity isn’t linear — it’s a web, often stitched with invisible thread.
What strikes me most is the way hats here aren’t just fashion statements — they’re acts of semiotic rebellion. The hat pin as proto-feminist weapon! The suffragette’s hat as merchandise and message! One could write a whole cultural history of resistance through accessories. And perhaps we should.
We’ve entered an age where “content” too often overshadows craft — fast fashion’s visual noise drowning out the slow whisper of a handmade piece. But this reminds us: craft is memory, inheritance, defiance. To wear a HOOD hat is to wear intention. And to make one, as Gabrielle does, is to reclaim space for artistry in a world that often confuses speed with innovation.
I also love the refusal to obey Coco Chanel’s tired dictate about removing one accessory before leaving the house. Sometimes maximalism is truth. Sometimes more is the most honest you can be.
Wonderful piece, Joanna!
Thank you Tamara ❤️ Your response is pure poetry - "from stories on paper to sculpting narrative in felt and feather, beautifully proves that creativity isn’t linear — it’s a web, often stitched with invisible thread." Yes! I would LOVE to read about the cultural history of resistance through accessories - I'm very sure each period would offer a unique insight on rebellion and revolution. I've been really thinking about the role of craft recently (partly inspired by your mention of it) and how necessary it is to our existence and quality of life. There is no quality without craft, and without quality - of attention, intention, creativity - we don't have as much meaning. I love the idea of craft as memory, inheritance, defiance. Craft is an act of resistance as much as it is an act of care.