City Hatters

Melbourne Cup 2016: Punters go mad for hatters and headwear

Milliners and men's hatters are cashing in on the popularity of headwear and say the racing season is their busiest time of year.

"Without Melbourne Cup Carnival we wouldn't survive. That's the crux of it," milliner Kim Fletcher said.

I would make at least 80 per cent of my income at this time of year."

Ms Fletcher has lost count of the hats, fascinators and headbands she has made in her crowded workshop this year, but is confident of one thing: it is all a bit of fun.