On a recent bone-chilling Charleston afternoon, while reading The Daily Mail Online, (the internet version of the UK newspaper,) I encountered a paparazzi shot of one of the English WAGs (Brit speak for “Wives and Girlfriends” of Footballers) modeling a particularly gorgeous straw hat while “on holiday” sunning herself on a beach of some excusive resort in Dubai.
Leslie, one of my favorite style icons as well as my mother, has always worn a similar hat. Since my childhood, she has lugged an overpriced wide brimmed tan straw hat with a thick grosgrain black ribbon tied ‘round it from what seems like every beach from Antigua to Antibes. This, with her matching Manuel Canvas bikini, has resulted her in being the most chic-looking woman on the beach. This photo not only reminded me of her, but of the delightful Peter Beaton Hat Studio in Nantucket. Located on swanky cobblestone Federal Street in historic downtown it is a little confection of a shop.
Off of the beaten path is a petite cape-style house. Dozens of beautifully made straw hats hang inside on rod iron racks just waiting to be bought. Each is named for a location on the island (beaches, lighthouses etc). The hats are made of the finest, most gorgeous straw and can be worn from the beach to the bar. A PB hat looks fantastic with a summer sundress, some chunky gold baubles, a pair of Jack Rodgers sandals and a tan. Classic.
Started by Darcy Creech, a divorcee in the ‘80s, as an alternative to a “real job”, the collection has evolved include candy colored ribbon belts, French striped shirts, sunglasses, umbrellas and Wellington Boots. The label’s namesake is her son’s first and middle name. One day I’ll stop pestering my mother to FedEx hers down for every vacation and Carolina Cup, and have my very own. Since they run for about $250 a pop, I’ll need my own income first!
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