Eagle-eyed reader Sarah passed on a most interesting royal hat find a few months ago and I thought it was high time to share it with all of you. This Ebay listing featured a hat from the estate of Princess Lilian of Sweden. Made by Scottish milliner John Boyd, the toque shaped hat is covered in pleated cream and navy silk and trimmed with handmade silk pompoms. The photos below show all sides of the hat including a peek inside- a view we never get to see! It’s a wonderful piece of exceptional quality and workmanship.
Unfortunately, I first saw the listing after it had already closed and was unable to make an offer. Whoever the buyer was, they are the lucky owner of a small piece of Swedish royal millinery history.
Thanks for sharing, Sarah!
Photos from Ebay
Royal Hats 
The green hat Lilian wore to National Day in 1990.
Great find! Thanks, Sarah.
Would like to see this hat on Princess Sofia of Sweden.
love this!
What an adorable hat! I love the pale blue one as well, but this one is just classy. I hope you find a picture of her wearing it!
What an astounding find! All three hats are wonderful!
Very interesting. Wouldn’t it be great to find photos of these hats actually being worn by a royal?
I have looked to no avail- if anyone can find them, please share!
That is interesting indeed.
Sarah also found the lucky new owner of this piece- Mabel’s Five and Dime in London. Owner Michelle has also picked up two other John Boyd hats previously owned by Princess Lilian. You can see one here and the other here.
Photo of the blue hat being worn. http://scanpix.no/spWebApp/preview/editorial/sx187594
That’s great, Sarah!
What a steal! And John Boyd is still creating like crazy at 90 years old.
Yes- he is a millinery force of nature.
I know nothing about him HQ……any chance of a special feature??