Kat Smith, Managing Editor of Naples Illustrated, asked Marilyn some fashion tips about hats to prepare for the 2015-2016 social season in Naples, Florida. This is the advice given by Marilyn: (Excerpt: Naples Illustrated, online)

Before the social season officially kicks off with the Naples Botanical Garden annual Hats in the Garden, the hunt for the perfect topper to wow the luncheon crowd is on. We asked Marilyn Hellman of Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion, Naples, to clue us in on the top three trends.

First, Hellman says, get ready to bring on the drama because dramatic and edgy shapes, and feathers are in.
Next, look out for hats in shades of gray.
And finally, consider a vintage 1920s look as The Great Gatsby craze is still in full swing.
Hellman recommends choosing any “brim you can handle,” and notes that younger women are gravitating to fascinators. 

For personalized advice, reserve your seat for Hellman’s complimentary seminar “Picking the Right Hat,” October 16, then shop the wide assortment of designer chapeaux from Philip Treacy (who has created looks for Lady Gaga and Britain’s royal family), Stephen Jones, Misaharada and more.