Herald & Heart started in Battersea, London primarily as a theatrical milliners working on diverse theatre, film and TV projects ranging from 'Poirot', 'Me And My Gal', 'Whoops Apocalypse!' and of course 'Four Weddings & A Funeral', which bolstered Herald & Heart's profile around the world.

The focus of the business quickly turned towards occasion hats for weddings, garden parties and Royal Ascot. Along with the growing fame the client base also rapidly grew, and before long Herald & Heart was the most sought after hat label in London.

In 1997 the business expanded and a further shop was opened in Dulwich. By this time Herald & Heart had established their international reputation selling their collections to boutiques and stores globally.

The collections were to be seen on many a catwalk and were exhibited at London, New York and Paris Fashion Weeks, gracing such heads as Naomi Campbell, and Kate Moss.

In 2002 Herald & Heart escaped the hurly burly of London and relocated to a far more sedate pace of life in Rye. It was a fantastic move, giving Tracey far more valuable time to do what she does best, which is designing and making beautiful hats. Many of the old clientele remain loyal and now visit the shop in Rye which has become the destination in the South for creative millinery.

Tracey has always resisted the temptation to become elitist however, and her passion is to see beautiful hats being accessible to anyone who wants to add glamour and style to their outfits.

There are also many less formal hats, such as our stock of large brimmed raffia sun hats and casual cotton Summer hats to complete your wardrobe. The shop stocks a wide range of other accessories too including trendy reading glasses, handbags, pashminas, jewellery, scarves and gloves, in fact a little something for everyone.

Men don't have to be left tied up outside either. They are also well catered for with a fine selection of genuine Panama hats, plus ranges of caps, leather hats and trilbies from Stetson, Susquehana and Bailey. We are also the Tilley Endurable stockist for this area.

Since settling in Rye we have completely fallen in love with the old place. There is something special about the gentle pace mixed with the variety of top notch restaurants and accommodation that is quickly making Rye one of the most popular destinations in Europe. A thousand years of heritage, preserved medieval architecture, antiques, galleries and teashops all contribute to the wonderful mix of this very cultural little town.

There is plenty to see, lots to do and you will be assured of one of the warmest welcomes imaginable.


2009



Herald & Heart are commited to providing the warmest, friendliest level of customer service. Whether you've yet to try on your first hat, or you're a lifelong aficionado of head ware; whether you're a lady or a gentleman, we'll be happy to assist you.

If you aren't sure of your size, we can measure your head for you.

Planning to attend or partake in a wedding, or some other special occasion? We can make your hat to order, and even colour-match to your chosen outfit. Just give us 4-6 weeks notice.

We also offer an alteration service. Pop into the shop or give us a call to discuss the particulars
of your request.

How long does it take to make a hat?

There is no easy answer, but it's probably a lot less time than you might think. Certainly not as long as it takes to make a tailored suit or a wedding dress. As a rule, allow 4-6 weeks
before the event.



Hats don't really suit me.

Nonsense! You just haven't found the right hat! Here at Herald & Heart, we believe there's a hat out there for every head. Let us help you find yours. Our shop is a good place to start!