"Hat's Off"

This year, guests will be traveling from - Texas, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Maryland, Alabama, and South/Central Florida. Thus the question: "How do you pack your hat for travel?"

There are several options for packing a hat, however me, myself, and I prefer the old fashion way; in a hat box with a purchased seat right next to me (just kidding...maybe). If you are not as "attached" to your millinery as I am, let me offer a few suggestions.

First, I would recommend packing your hat in its own box and carrying (that's correct) carrying your hat in the box on the plane and place in the overhead compartment. This option may evoke looks of wonderment from the masses (particularly since it is four weeks after the Kentucky Derby);and you will be stopped constantly by women wondering where you are going, and if they can go, too. There is something Parisian about walking through the airport carrying a hat box. Note to self: Leave early because you will be stopped several times

Option two would be to place your hat, crown down in your suitcase. place lingere and other soft clothing items in the suitcase surrounding the crown while bracing the brim. Once step one is completed, all other articles of clothing can be placed in the crown and on top of the brim. This will keep the hat shaped during the flight.

Lastly, and my least favorite..., you can always "wear" your hat on the plane. While this may be common for women traveling in England, this may not be the best option in the U.S. Note to self, again: Leave early because you will be stopped several times.

Well, I have offered my advice to guests flying in...remember whatever method you select, just don't forget to pack/wear your hat. There is nothing worse than arriving at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia for the Fancy Hat Literary Luncheon without your head attire.

A Special Thanks to Natalie, KayCee, JayCee, Karen, and Sheryl for taking off your hats for this "photo op" after the Fancy Hat Literary Luncheon 2010!!