For the first time in more than 40 years, the stunning Palais Galliera is presenting an exhibition entirely centered on the hat, celebrating it as a piece of art. The showcase delves into Stephen Jones’s artistic process, the inspirations behind his creations, and the influence of Paris on his work. This incredible show is running until 16th March 2025.

Born in the north-west of England in 1957, and schooled in Liverpool, Stephen Jones studied Womenswear Fashion design at Saint Martin’s School of Art, London. He opened his first millinery salon in London in 1980, and was soon presenting two hat collections a year. After leaving Saint Martin’s he had become a regular patron of the Covent Garden nightclub The Blitz, cradle of the New Romantic movement, where he hung out with people from the music world like Spandau Ballet and Boy George. Friends made at The Blitz became Stephen Jones’s first clients. He went on to work in haute couture and gradually forged close links with some of the world’s leading fashion houses and designers, including Christian Dior, Jean Paul Gaultier, Claude Montana, Thierry Mugler, Vivienne Westwood, John Galliano, Comme des Garçons, Walter Van Beirendonck, and Louis Vuitton.

The exhibition features nearly 400 pieces, including over 170 hats, along with items from Stephen Jones’s archives, such as preparatory sketches, photographs, and fashion show excerpts. Additionally, around 40 complete silhouettes, showcasing both clothing and hats, highlight the strong bond between Jones and some of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses, particularly Christian Dior, with whom he has collaborated for nearly three decades.