Milliner vs. Hatter — What's the Difference?

A milliner is traditionally associated with the fashion industry, creating hats and accessories primarily for women. These artisans pay close attention to trends, materials, and designs that complement women's fashion. On the other hand, a hatter, also known historically as a hat maker, crafts hats for both men and women, focusing on a broader range of styles that may prioritize practicality and durability over purely aesthetic qualities.

Milliners are known for their artistic abilities to decorate hats with embellishments such as ribbons, flowers, and feathers, making each piece unique and often custom-tailored to the client's desires. Whereas hatters might also customize hats, their work often revolves around classic shapes and materials designed for everyday wear or specific functions, like protection from the weather.

The term "milliner" originates from Milan, Italy, a city renowned for its fashion and quality merchandise, including women's hats, highlighting the artistic and fashionable aspect of millinery. Conversely, the term "hatter" derives from the Saxon word "hæt" meaning hat, which points to the more utilitarian aspect of hat making.

Milliners often operate within the realm of high fashion, with their creations frequently appearing at events such as weddings, horse races, and other societal gatherings where fashion takes center stage. In contrast, hatters may cater to a wider audience, including those seeking hats for occupational reasons, outdoor activities, or casual wear.

While milliners might collaborate closely with fashion designers to ensure their creations complement specific outfits or fashion collections, hatters often focus on timeless designs that can appeal to a broad customer base without the need for such close alignment with the fluctuating trends of the fashion industry.