ABOUT ANNABETH
Annabeth Fernley is a Manchester-based milliner whose practice is rooted in over thirteen years of experience in costume design for theatre, television, and film. Her work is shaped by a deep appreciation for textile and fashion craftsmanship, developed through hands-on learning and a commitment to heritage techniques.
She began her career as an apprentice at the Royal Exchange Theatre, where she cultivated a nuanced understanding of the relationship between garments, character, and performance. This foundation in costume informed her approach to millinery, blending storytelling with technical precision.
Training
In 2023, Annabeth began formalising her millinery practice through short courses with couture milliners, deepening her technical knowledge and expanding her creative vocabulary. Her dedication led to a place on the prestigious Chanel and King’s Foundation Métiers d’art Millinery Fellowship, a programme committed to preserving the heritage craft of millinery in the UK. The fellowship has offered her access to exceptional mentorship both in the UK and at the renowned Maison Michel ateliers in Paris, allowing her to refine her skills at the highest level.
Practice
Annabeth’s millinery practice weaves together femininity, sculpture, and materiality, creating headpieces that are both artful and wearable. Her designs, suited for a wide range of occasions, strike a dynamic balance between fluidity and structure. With a refined sensitivity to colour and a keen eye for reinterpreting classic forms through a contemporary lens, Annabeth brings versatility and innovation to every piece she creates.
Costume career
Next chapter
Post-course, Annabeth has been building her millinery practice through an exciting mix of fashion, bridal and costume commissions.
Creating a variety of hats for theatre including fourteen 1920’s showgirl headdresses for the Royal Exchange Theatre’s Christmas production, hat restorations for The Book of Mormon, a red fur hat and veil for Spider Woman, a sculptural leather crown and veil for a ‘bronze statue’ Queen Victoria, feather and metal wings for Johnny Vegas and headwear for FKA twigs 2026 tour.
Alongside my own work, I have assisted established milliners including Jenny Roberts, Lucy Barlow and Sarah Cant.
While building my professional experience, I have continued to develop my own creative voice and grow my practice from my studio.
Commission a Headpiece
When getting in touch about a commission it’s helpful to include a few details so that I can get a feel for what you’re looking for.
Tell me a little about what’s inspiring the piece you have in mind and whether theres a particular piece of my work you’d like to use as a reference. You can also share any idea around colour, materials, shape or style. It would be great to know what the piece is for and when you’ll need it by.
If you’re looking for a piece for an occasion it’s best if you have the rest of your look first, so feel free to attach outfit inspo.
For costume work please include designs, budget and timeframe.
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything figured out - commissions are a collaboration and I’m always happy to develop the idea with you.