I spend a lot of time observing nature. In Autumn there is a smell in the woods that I call earthy; a decomposing, moist, fresh and slightly sweet smell. When I walk I look for my favorite miniature blush fungi and sage lichens. Their small worlds catch my eye and make me stop to admire their networks tucked into nooks and crannies.

This hat reflects the beautiful colors, detail and geometry found in fungi thriving in decomposing earth. The mounded, seemingly crowded ecosystems that seem so otherworldly…

While the fabric of this upcycled silk blouse mimics a variety of fungi, the integrated wool grounds the design and brings unity to the beret. The beaded border highlights the wearer and features the minutiae of the world I find so fascinating. Upcycling fashion into new headwear is also very good for the Earth…

The lining of the hat features the “fun-guy.” The silk lining the hat presents polka dots, a seahorse, chili peppers, a cannoli, a flounder and a half-cut onion… Though not reversible, the lining definitely adds a fun and whimsical aspect to this one-of-a-kind piece.

Note: Entries have been not been edited or proofread to protect the integrity of the maker's original meaning.