My “head-gear” collection knows no bounds. Or so it would seem, when I think back on all the scrunchies, Hot Loops, plastic butterfly clips (I’m looking at you, 1999), bandanas, hats-that-could-pass-as-tea-cosies, bumpits and headbands that I’ve owned. Woefully nerdy elementary school photos aside, these ghosts of head-adornments past have served me well. Lately, though, I’ve managed to convince myself that my tastes have matured a little — thanks, in part, to the Headmistress.
Who’s the Headmistress? Well, technically speaking, “the” Headmistress is Toronto-based Jillian Wood. She makes a living creating covet-worthy, handmade headdresses: turbans, demi-turbans, fascinators, feathered statement pieces and, yes, headbands. Wood’s designs are whimsical, and, perhaps most importantly, wearable. You probably won’t be accused of pulling a Princess Bea, but you will have to accept that, while wearing a Headmistress anything — as I’ve just found out — you will have to talk about it. Yes, headpieces are also conversation pieces. (But you already knew that.)
Over the course of four hours, I’ve fielded a half-dozen questions about my headband. Where’s it from? Who made it? And, as one colleague asked me this morning, is it "flapper day" today? While I’m often reluctant to enter into conversation about my appearance, I’d much rather answer questions about a headpiece than anything else I choose to wear. Why? Because headdresses are deliberate. I must leave the house wearing shoes and a jacket. But a headband? Or a demi-turban? Those are add-ons, extras.
So buyers beware: if you’re going to invest in a Headmistress headpiece (which I would heartily suggest you do), be prepared to talk about it.
Headmistress, available at various retailers in the city, 416-970-9793