Meet David Dunkley, Founder, CEO & Creative Director, David Dunkley Fine Millinery - startGBC June 2024 #WhyNotME GBC Entrepreneur Spotlight
About David Dunkley
You don’t need to travel the world (or even traipse around Toronto) in search of the perfect hat, fascinator or bridal headpiece. David Dunkley Fine Millinery is the creative home of accomplished Toronto Milliner David Dunkley and the premier destination for all your crowning glories.
A master in his own right, David has studied with the former royal milliner to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. In keeping with this royal millinery lineage, Dunkley’s creations have been sported by members of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s royal entourage and presented to Her Majesty Queen Camilla.
David, an international award-winning milliner, is elevating headwear to new artistic heights through his commitment to traditional millinery techniques and with his flair for distinctive design. His bespoke millinery studio is a sanctum of style where you receive unparalleled personal attention.
Whether daring or demure, each of David’s hats is handcrafted, using time-honoured techniques of blocking, forming and embellishment. David’s inimitable vision offers patrons a new take on classic styles in every design, from breathtaking bridal millinery to Ascot-worthy creations.
Academic Background
I have studied Millinery with George Brown and with Ms. Rose Cory - Milliner to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
I have always enjoyed jobs that involved building something - hence entrepreneurship was right up my alley!
Why did you create your business?
I had the opportunity to sell hats for one summer (I had been laid off). I thought "I'll sell for the summer" and then look for another job. However, I discovered that I love sales and creating! Hence the love of retail was born. From there I decided to open a retail location.
What successes have you enjoyed so far with building your company?
Oh-gosh! I have had many wonderful successful moments! My shop, being picked up by Hudson's Bay, dressing celebrities, working with the Royal Family, dressing clients for weddings, being nominated as Accessory Designer of the Year 2023 with the Canadian Arts and Fashion and Awards. Operating a successful retail hat shop - in 2023 I was invited by Canada House for the Coronation of the new King and Queen - happily DDFM also dressed people in London. Just to name a few things!
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Trust your gut! If you are worried and scared - you should probably be doing "it"! If it was easy everyone would be doing it.
Any organisations or learning resources you would recommend?
George Brown of course!
Anything else you would like to share?
The most important thing to do in a creative industry is to create! Always be making and experimenting. It's vital to your business and to your creativity.
Website and Socials
Website: www.DavidDunkley.me
Instagram: @DavidDunkleyHat
