Queues for "Hats: An Anthology by Stephen Jones" at London's Victoria & Albert Museum are quite possibly one of the longest in London. Yes, it's that fantastic. So the best way to actually see the fabulous creations on display is to create a diversion. Here's how. Wear one of Jones's millinery works. (I opt for a Jones/Marc Jacobs collaboration.) When the engrossed crowd parts to look at you, seize the opportunity. Move in. Just like that you'll be face to glass with the wonderful and the weird in categories like paper, felt, knit, floral, straw, plastic, celebrity, and occupational. Some hats you’ll recognize from history—like the Cecil Beaton bonnet worn by Audrey Hepburn in the 1964 film My Fair Lady. Others you'll be thankful you don't own—like Bill Cunningham's "Stiletto Shoe New York" from 1970. Some you’ll covet. For me, with all due respect to my very much alive and well husband, it's Jones's "Merry Widow Satin Hat" from 2009. While the throngs are admiring the Duchess of Cornwall's bridal hat by Philip Treacy, wander over to the millinery workroom at the center and heart of the exhibit. You’ll gain an appreciation for what Jones refers to as "half Aladdin's cave and half artist’s studio." Eva Polis

(Above: Nasir Mazhar for Gareth Pugh Spring/Summer 2008.)

*i've been lucky enough to witness stephen jones doing what he does best. he is a master craftsman.

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