Author(s): Kevin Davies

General

For the very first time Head, Wear and Workprovides a unique, behind-the-scenes portrait of one of the world's most famous and influential milliners. Philip Treacy has allowed a single photographer, his friend Kevin Davies, personal access to his life, studio and working method for the past 20 years. The result is a wonderful exploration into the world of a true craftsman, designer to the stars and creative magician.

Born in the west of Ireland and an MA student in Fashion Design at the Royal College of Arts in London, Treacy graduated in 1990 and was discovered by the then Style Editor of TatlerIsabella Blow. He soon became, and has remained, the milliner of choice for many of the top fashion designers including Alexander McQueen, Karl Lagerfeld, Valentino and Chanel, but is also the first milliner invited to have his own show during Paris couture week. The recipient of numerous international fashion awards, Treacy is credited with changing the perception of hat and accessories in fashion.

Treacy's unique creations are hand-made to order for the like of Sarah Jessica Parker, Victoria Beckham, The Duchess of Cambridge and the daughters of Prince Andrew. Hat maker to royalty and the stars, Treacy designed over 30 hats for the 2011 wedding between Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge. He has designed hats for films, including the enormously successful Harry Potterfranchise and has also developed ranges for high street fashion outlets including Debenhams and Marks & Spencer.

An intensely private individual, Treacy is averse to having outsiders watch him while he works. However, there is one photographer who is allowed in his studio to hunt for shots. Capturing beautiful, poignant and intriguing images of Treacy on his own, with his muses, or fitting his one-off creations, Kevin Davies has had intimate access to the famous designer. Exploring his outlandish workshop, like a greenhouse of tropical plants that metamorphose into devilishly complex craftsmanship and the most amazing creations. Head, Wear and Workpresents a rare insight into a monumental career.

Illustrated with around 200 photographs, including a section devoted entirely to the 20 most iconic works by Treacy, this book is an unequalled record of the designer's life. The photographs will be accompanied by anecdotes and insights by both Treacy and Davies, offering personal appreciation of events, designs and directions from the past 13 years. The book reveals the extraordinary world and creative genius of a highly influential figure.