Dear girl, there are hats that merely cover the head, and then there are hats that require a whisper of a rumor to precede them. This, I assure you, is the latter.
This delightful piece was not found in a dusty bazaar, but won quite fairly (though perhaps not entirely honestly) from a notorious Contessa—a Russian noblewoman with a penchant for high-stakes card games and a disturbing certainty that she was, in fact, living backwards through time. If you require something for a happier occasion, the pristine white of The Temporal Bride's Vow is simply divine. I met her at a spectacularly gaudy underground club in Venice, where the fog machines ran on clockwork and the house champagne was rumored to be diluted aether.
The hat's short, sharp profile is meant to be arresting, holding attention without dominating the wearer. The primary black felt is underscored by the luxurious burgundy satin band, a shade of rich red that speaks of old wealth and dangerous passion. The crowning jewel, however, is the central ruby-toned jewel, a talisman she claimed helped her predict the next hand. I suspect it merely distracted her opponents, which is equally effective.
The delicate black lace and the dangling burgundy beads catch the light beautifully, swaying just enough to draw the eye away from any quick maneuver you might need to execute. The dark feathers, swept back dramatically, complete the picture of a woman ready for intrigue, be it in a formal ballroom or during a sudden escape across the moonlit canals.
Wear this when your secrets are as vibrant as the red trim, and your presence demands silent, immediate respect. It is a crown for the woman who has seen far too much to ever be considered merely sweet.
Product Specifications (For the discerning customer):
Materials: Black Felt, Burgundy Satin Band, Black Lace, Dark Feathers
Features: Central Jewel Embellishment, Dangle Beaded Trim, and Black Tulle detailing
Style: Steampunk Cocktail Top Hat (One Size Fits Most)
Aunt Matilda’s Guarantee: Ideal for all events requiring a hint of danger and impeccable taste.
