Gigi Burris Millinery is a female founded, New York based workshop grounded in the preservation of traditional millinery techniques. Each of the hats are created using the centuries-old technique of hand blocking over carved wooden forms and finished with precision, while fine details such as couture featherwork employ intricate millinery treatments—flowers are handmade by a floral atelier and each crystal is individually placed, reflecting a commitment to craftsmanship.
Millinery had its beginnings in 16th Century Europe, when artisans flocked from Milan to peddle collections of buttons, trims, and ribbons to members of high society in Europe. The craft soon found a welcome home in Paris, where women would seek out milliners to create one-of-a-kind pieces that allowed them to fit in—and stand out—amongst the crowd.
Like the most famous milliners before her, Gigi affirmed her craft in Paris as a student at Parsons School of Design. While there, she visited vintage mercerie shops and became fascinated with the embellishments found inside. As a student under Leah Chalfen at Parsons School of Design in New York, and during her internship with the designer, Gigi excelled in couture handwork and intricate handmade adornments. In her final year at Parsons, Gigi was nominated for the Designer of the Year Award, with a collection of hats that immediately attracted a wave of devotees due to their ingenious mix of the feminine and gothic shapes and styles that appealed to contemporary tastes.
Craftsmanship is the heart of luxury and Gigi Burris is dedicated to preserving the field of millinery. Since its founding, Gigi Burris Millinery has remained committed to crafting each collection in the United States. Supporting American craftsmanship is about more than where something is made. It is about investing in the local economy, preserving generational knowledge, and ensuring millinery skills continue to thrive.
That same commitment inspired the founding of Closely Crafted, the nonprofit established by Gigi to strengthen the American fashion manufacturing ecosystem through education, advocacy, and workforce development. Built to champion the people behind the industry, Closely Crafted works to preserve artisan knowledge while creating opportunities for the next generation of makers.
With each day, we celebrate the legacy behind every one of our hand-crafted pieces because craftsmanship begins with the people who make it.
Closely Crafted Featured in Business of Fashion on Preserving Artisanal Craft
Gigi Burris Millinery is a New York based luxury hat and accessories brand dedicated to preserving the romantic craft of millinery through responsible, local, and handmade production. Each piece is handcrafted in New York City using centuries-old techniques to ensure timeless design and thoughtful craftsmanship.
A CFDA member and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Gigi Burris has collaborated with prominent designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Brandon Maxwell, and Monse. The brand has also secured a global following among notable figures including Sarah Jessica Parker, Lady Gaga, and Mahershala Ali.
Currently, Gigi Burris Millinery is distributed through exclusive retail partners, including Net-A-Porter, Nordstrom, FWRD, and The Webster.