Royal Ascot supports next generation of hat-makers

The partnership aims to protect traditional heritage skills that are at risk of being lost

The King's charity has announced a millinery partnership with Royal Ascot to nurture the next generation of hat-makers.

Royal Ascot in Berkshire has introduced a £10,000 annual bursary to support a King's Foundation and Chanel graduating millinery student.

The Foundation's students will also be showcasing their hats at this year's Royal Ascot, which runs from 17-21 June.

Daniel McAuliffe, education director at The King's Foundation said: "We are proud to be supporting the future of this skill at the most iconic hat-wearing event of the year."

The Chanel and The King's Foundation Metiers d'Art Millinery Fellowship in Partnership with le19M, Chanel's creative hub for artisans in Paris, was launched in 2024.

The intensive programme aims to develop a network of young specialist milliners in the UK, with the support of Parisian hat-maker Maison Michel at le19M.

The King's Foundation's work is inspired by King Charles's passion for protecting traditional heritage skills at risk of being lost.

Ascot Racecourses' chief executive said they're "committed to preserving the tradition"

The Royal Ascot Millinery Collective 2026 is celebrating its 10th anniversary with 10 bespoke designs created under the creative direction of British fashion designer Daniel Fletcher.

Future students joining the millinery course will be tasked with designing a Royal Ascot inspired hat which will be featured in the Royal Ascot Millinery Collective 2026 as its 11th design.

Ascot Racecourses' chief executive, Felicity Barnard said: "Exquisite hats and millinery masterpieces are woven into the very fabric of Royal Ascot's heritage.

"We are committed to preserving and celebrating this tradition for generations to come."