HAT DIPLOMACY AT ITS FINEST

Thirty-two female ambassadors and high officials to The United Nations entered The Permanent Mission of Romania on January 22, 2015 with the weight of the world on their shoulders.

When they left, they had a smile on their face and a stylish Plaza Suite Hat from The Bollman Hat Company on their head. They had attended the 5th annual Hats of The World Luncheon, hosted by The Hat Ladies of Charleston and Ambassador Simona Miculescu of Romania.

When the impressive and powerful Ladies of The United Nations exited the elevator, they found a table filled with hats. Three Hat Ladies were in waiting to assist them find the perfect one. Ladies from both sides of this aisle were veterans of previous Luncheons. Thus they greeted one another as long time friends.

Once properly hatted, the guests moved into the Reception Room, where 30 Hat Ladies awaited them. Ambassador Miculescu and Top Hat Archie Burkel took to the stage, with its backdrop of scenes of Romania and officially welcomed everyone.

Next came the "Parade of Hats" as each United Nations dignitary took the podium, modeled her hat with "hatitude," and shared reflections. A common theme was their delight in being part of this Luncheon. Many proudly announced how many stylish hats they owned, thanks to the number of Luncheons they attended. One representative said her predecessor had told her that this Event was not to be missed; another said it was simply the best of the year. Mary Rosario of Bollman Hats, Bernard Grossman formerly of Betmar Hats and F. & M Hats, and milliners Kathy Anderson, Natalya Bythewood, Ellen Christine, Judith Mishler, and Evetta Petty were also honoured attendees.

The success of The Hats of The World Luncheons validates what we hat lovers have known all along: Hats are magical; hats bring people together; hats transcend culture, religion, ethnicity, and time itself; hats instill self-esteem; hats are fun. And that is a philosophy everyone can hang his or her hat on.

Plaza Suite Hats provided by Bollman Hat Company ` Amb. Laura E. Flores H. (Panama), Top Hat Archie