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Archie Burkel

Archie Burkel
April 2011
PHOTOGRAPHER: 
As The Hat Ladies’ spirited founder prepares for the group’s 10th annual Easter Promenade, she puts some of her own treasured possessions on parade


As The Hat Ladies’ spirited founder prepares for the group’s 10th annual Easter Promenade, she puts some of her own treasured possessions on parade

 

 

For Keeps:
Archie has been collecting boxes since 1972, when she found the ivory one at left in a jewelry store in Nairobi, Kenya.


 

 

Close Shave:
“If a hurricane came, my father’s shaving brush is one of the first things I’d grab. He used it from the time he first shaved to almost the end of his life.”"


 

 

Show on the Road:
“My husband got me this license plate for Christmas a few years ago, and I love it!”


 

 

 

 

Face Value:
“John searched for the right artist to paint my portrait until he finally found Corey Scott Fisher exhibiting at the Mary Martin Gallery. I was touched that he wanted to do this for me.”


 

 

 

Wear It Well:
“People always get compliments when they wear a great hat, and that boosts the individual’s self-esteem while also helping them forge relationships with others.”


 

 

 

Fine Tunes:
“I found this Wurlitzer jukebox 15 years ago at a historic bed and breakfast in Fort Gaines, Georgia. I’d always wanted one, because I love that old time rock ’n’ roll.”


 

 

 

Top Hat:
“My father’s Jewish War Veteran’s hat—which he received after serving in the Navy during World War II—is my favorite hat of all. I wear it on Veterans Day when The Hat Ladies visit nursing homes.”


 

The Essentials:

Hat Rules: “The crown of the hat should not be the same shape as the jaw line; you have to pull your hair back; and you have to have ‘hatitude’—take that hat and cock it if you can!”
Water Ways: “Swimming is an essential part of my day. I was a synchronized swimmer in high school and still go to the pool six or seven times a week.”
Personal Style: “Thanks to my grandmother, my motto is, ‘Put it all together, from hat to toe.’ I love color and accessories!”

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