Interview with the Founder of Brynels British Millinery

Elegant. Purposeful. Rooted in legacy. These are the words that come to mind when describing Brynels British Millinery, a brand that has carved a unique place in the world of bespoke millinery. At its helm is founder and creative director Vivean Viola Pomell, a designer deeply inspired by heritage and her mother’s craftsmanship. In this candid interview, Vivean shares the heart behind the hats—from her earliest influences to creating exquisite hats worn at royal events and fashion shows.

Q1 – Vivean, tell us about the origin of Brynels British Millinery. Where did the journey begin?

Vivean:The roots go back to my childhood. I was raised around sewing machines, fabrics, and the meticulous hands of my late mother, Brynel Stone. She was a gifted seamstress and an entrepreneur, running a small cottage industry from our home. Watching her create from nothing sparked my imagination. Years later, I opened a boutique in Edgbaston, Birmingham, offering custom headpieces for women who wanted to express individuality with elegance.

Q2 – Your mother clearly played a pivotal role. How does her legacy live on through your work?

Vivean: Everything I do is, in a sense, a tribute to her. She not only taught me to sew but instilled the values of excellence, resilience, and creativity. The brand name “Brynels” honours her. Our bespoke hats reflect her attention to detail and cultural richness designs that celebrate identity and womanhood with grace.

Q3 – How would you describe the Brynels aesthetic in one sentence?

Vivean: Modest sophistication with a bold, contemporary spirit

Q4 – What types of women wear your hats?

Vivean: Women who are confident, cultured, and value meaning in what they wear. My clients range from professionals attending high-society events to women celebrating personal milestones. Many are looking for more than just a hat—they seek luxury designer hats that tell their story.

Q5 – Your work has been worn at some very prestigious events. What has that meant to you?

Vivean: It’s been humbling and affirming. Seeing my designs at The Queen’s Garden Party, Investiture ceremonies, and London Fashion Week was more than exposure—it was validation that craftsmanship and heritage still matter in fashion. These moments have reinforced our reputation among British milliners and as bespoke hat makers to watch.

Q6 – Tell us about your creative process. What goes into designing a Brynels headpiece?

Vivean: It begins with listening. I start by understanding the client—her style, her story, and the occasion. Then I sketch and experiment with textures, colours, and structures. Every hat is hand-finished and made with love. I approach each commission as a narrative in sculptural form—an artful blend of tradition and innovation.

Q7 – What materials and techniques do you favour in your designs?

Vivean: I work with fine sinamay, silks, velvets, and occasionally sustainable fabrics. Crafting designer hats for women means balancing aesthetic drama with comfort and wearability. Techniques like blocking, wiring, and hand-trimming allow for precision. It’s slow fashion in its truest form.

Q8 – How do you see Brynels evolving over the next few years?

Vivean: The goal is to expand without compromising quality. We’re exploring capsule collections, introducing casual-luxe pieces, and possibly branching into menswear accessories. Education is also on my heart—I’d love to mentor emerging British couture designers and promote skills that are slowly being lost.

Q9 – What’s one misconception about millinery you’d like to change?

Vivean: That hats are outdated or only for older generations. Hats are timeless. They can elevate an outfit, evoke strength, or make a statement without words. When designed thoughtfully, they’re wearable art.

Q10 – What advice would you give to someone seeking a bespoke piece?

Vivean: Come with an open mind and a sense of who you are. The most stunning designs emerge from collaboration. Trust the process, and don’t be afraid to let your story shine through the design. A bespoke millinery experience should feel empowering and intimate, not intimidating.

Final Thoughts from Vivean

At its core, Brynels British Millinery is about more than fashion. It’s about legacy, personal storytelling, and celebrating the art of being seen. With each creation, Vivean is not only making hats—she’s preserving history, culture, and the dignity of handcrafted design.