To celebrate the acquisition of the archive of distinguished artist Tom Phillips, the Bodleian Library asked the artist to assemble and design a series of books drawing on his themed collection of over 50,000 photographic postcards. These encompass the first half of the twentieth century, a period in which, thanks to the ever cheaper medium of photography, ordinary people could afford to own portraits of themselves. Each of the books in the series contains two hundred images chosen from a visually rich vein of social history. Their covers also feature thematically linked paintings, specially created for each title, from Phillips's signature work, " A Humument."
"Women & Hats" explores the remarkable range found in the world of millinery, from outrageous Edwardian creations to the inventive austerities of World War II. Each of these unique and visually stunning books give a rich glimpse of forgotten times and will be greatly valued by art and history lovers alike.

Philip Treacy is one of the world's most famous and influential milliners. Hat maker to top fashion houses, celebrities and international royalty, his unique creations are hand-made feats of craftsmanship. Milliner of choice for designers including Alexander McQueen, Karl Lagerfeld, Valentino and Chanel, Treacy is also the first milliner invited to have his own show during Paris couture week. Intensely private, Treacy is averse to having outsiders watch him while he works. However, photographer Kevin Davies, close friend of the designer for over 20 years, has documented his unique access to the milliner and his fantastical studio, capturing moments with Treacy on his own, with his muses, or fitting his iconic creations. With over 200 photographs accompanied by anecdotes and insights by both Treacy and Davies, this book reveals the extraordinary world and creative genius of a highly influential figure.