SHOWSTOPPER DESIGNER JACK MCCONNELL GRAY FELT WIDE BRIM HAT + BLUE/GRAY FEATHERS

This is indeed a very unique anecdote gorgeous hat from the Jack McConnell collection. The hat is made of beautiful gray felt, to which blue/gray feathers have been attached in such a creative way. The wide, upturned brim is covered in the feathers on the visible side, and the round crown is partially covered in them also. This is a statement hat coveted by collectors. Jack McConnell (1916-2007) Pursued acting career in New York City - he specialized in southern accents for radio shows. He served three years in the Coast Guard during World War II. While stationed at Staten Island, he was dating a woman who was a hat designer. He decided to try making a hat himself and succeeded. He went into millinery designing and learned by making model hats for Laddie Northridge, an acclaimed milliner. At one time he was referred to as the "King of Millinery". He designed hats for movie stars such as Joan Crawford and Lana Turner. Label: JACK MCCONNELL BOUTIQUE Please keep in mind that you are buying a vintage hat, not new nor perfect! This is an authentic piece of fashion history! This hat is in wonderful vintage condition & has been lovingly preserved among over 1300 vintage hats we have collected for 40+ years. Feathers, straw, furs, flowers & veils are fragile, given their age. Mannequin not for sale.