Some hats are made to protect heads from the harsh sun, heavy falling objects and bad hair days. Others are created purely to transform the cranium into an enchanted, fantastical work of art.

At the moment I am deliriously besotted with the headpieces from the Alexander McQueen S/S 2012 collection. Concoctions of delicate lace and astonishing beading, mask the face and work as an extension of these intricately and superbly crafted dresses.

“I was thinking about a woman as an object of desire. We go to such lengths to adorn ourselves that we almost become our clothes or are taken over by them. This is a collection about excess – an exploration of ideals of beauty at their most extreme.’ – Sarah Burton, McQueen designer.

With the face hidden, the woman underneath is all but insignificant to the look. To me, these head coverings do in fact look as if the outfit has consumed the wearer.

I just love the way these close fitting cap/masks bring such strength to the concept. They look almost like modern fairy warriors! Awesome stuff! I’m all inspired now. Going to make a hat!

Got these images from: http://www.weddinginspirasi.com/2011/10/07/alexander-mcqueen-spring-2012-ready-to-wear/