Formé Millinery Co.

The Formé Millinery Story

Jenny Pfanenstiel named the Featured Milliner of the 146th Kentucky Derby® (Photo: Clay Cook)

Master Milliner, Jenny Pfanenstiel

Jenny Pfanenstiel: Master Milliner, Entrepreneur, and Community Leader

"A hat can not only change your day, but it can also change your life!" - Jenny Pfanenstiel

6x Featured Milliner of the Kentucky Derby®

Official Milliner of the Kentucky Derby Museum

Jenny Pfanenstiel, Master Milliner and owner of Formé Millinery in Louisville, Judith M Millinery Supply in La Grange, and The Hat Shoppe in Louisville, is internationally recognized for her award-winning craftsmanship in hand-creating and sculpting hats. Using the highest quality and rare materials from around the world, she has mastered traditional millinery techniques while innovating with sculpted hat designs using her 1800s braid machine—creating one-of-a-kind headwear that has garnered global acclaim.

With a Fashion & Arts Degree from the Colorado Institute of Art, Jenny has studied with world-renowned milliners, refining her craft through international experience. She launched her business in 2009 and, in 2014, moved to Kentucky, establishing Formé Millinery and later expanding with Judith M Millinery Supply House and The Hat Shoppe. Together with her husband and daughter, they proudly support the millinery community by providing high-quality products and education to hat designers in Louisville and beyond. Jenny is an accomplished author, educator, speaker, and entrepreneurial leader, employing approximately 10 people and impacting thousands through her artistry.

Industry Recognition & Achievements

Jenny is a six-time Featured Milliner of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, the Official Milliner of the Kentucky Derby Museum, and a nine-time Featured Milliner of Keeneland Racetrack. Her work has been showcased in over 500 publications, radio, and television appearances and in numerous millinery events worldwide.

She has served as a guest judge for prestigious fashion events, including the Kentucky Oaks Red Carpet Fashion Show, Kentucky Derby Museum’s Horsing Around with Art, and Project Runway Milliner, among many others. Her numerous accolades include:

Best Renowned Milliner in the USA – LUXlife Style and Apparel Awards (2023)
Made in America Award – Martha Stewart
Multiple International Hatty Awards

Collaborations & Contributions

Jenny has collaborated with brands such as Vineyard Vines, Woodford Reserve, J Peterman, Covet Fashion Style App, American Express, Goodman Theatre, and the Joffrey Ballet. As a hat designer for McCall Patterns, her Formé Millinery flat pattern hat designs are available worldwide.

As an educator, Jenny published her first book, The Making of a Milliner, with Dover Publications in 2015 and is currently working on her second. She regularly leads workshops across the globe to preserve and advance the art of millinery.

In 2019, Jenny was honored as a Tory Burch Fellow, recognizing her as a top female entrepreneur. She now serves as a mentor for aspiring business owners, sharing her expertise nationally.

Community Involvement & Philanthropy

Jenny is deeply committed to giving back to the Louisville community and beyond. She hosts workshops, presents at local and national events, and supports various charitable organizations. She has been an invited speaker for Bellarmine University, Ladies in Leadership, Alliance Française de Louisville, Louisville Girls Leadership, and many more.

She is actively involved in organizations such as:

Louisville Tourism
NULU Business Association
Louisville Visual Art Association
Louisville Independent Business Alliance (LIBA)
Greater Louisville Inc. (GLI)
Frankfort Avenue Business Association (FABA)

Jenny has also served on advisory boards for the International Academy of Design and Technology, Fashion Group International, and the Apparel Industry Board (AIBI). She was awarded the Champion Award by the American Lung Association for her civic contributions.

In 2023, Jenny partnered with Hope Scarves, a Louisville-based breast cancer charity, to create a Swarovski crystal-adorned masterpiece, auctioned for $3,000, with all proceeds donated in honor of her sister, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022.

Alongside her family, Jenny continues to foster community spirit, from hosting free events in La Grange to coaching her daughter’s elementary track team at St. George School.

A Legacy in Millinery

Jenny’s passion for hat-making is both an art and a mission. When she’s not crafting hats in her Louisville shop, she is teaching millinery workshops worldwide, with the desire to continue a tradition that is by no means forgotten.

Photo: Clay Cook

The Millinery Process

The Art of Hatmaking

Experience the Art of Millinery with Master Milliner Jenny Pfanenstiel

Step into the world of Jenny Pfanenstiel, where tradition meets craftsmanship. Each hat is meticulously handcrafted using century-old techniques and wooden hat blocks displayed throughout her workspace. Dedicated to preserving this 200+ year-old art, Jenny transforms what may seem like a simple accessory into a statement piece—one that sparks conversation and commemorates life’s most cherished moments. A hat is more than just fashion; it becomes a wearable journal of personal adventures.

The Process: From Vision to Reality

Creating a hat takes anywhere from three days to three weeks, beginning with the time-honored technique of blocking—wetting and steaming the material to mold it over custom blocks. Sourcing only the finest materials from England, France, and Australia, Jenny ensures each hat is crafted with exceptional quality. She also treasures vintage millinery materials, incorporating Bakelite, antique hat pins, and buttons to add character and history to each piece.

Once the material is shaped, smoothed, and secured, it undergoes a drying process before Jenny carefully cuts, hand-sews, and assembles the hat. A sweatband and wire are added for comfort and structure, ensuring a perfect fit.

Personalized Elegance

Every embellishment is handmade, from sculpted horsehair designs to delicate feather flowers, allowing for endless creativity and customization. Jenny works closely with clients to design hats for all genders, occasions, and seasons. The process begins with a head measurement, followed by selecting materials, colors, and shapes that best complement each individual’s style. The result? A one-of-a-kind hat that fits flawlessly and reflects your personality.

Jenny’s passion for millinery shines through in every creation, ensuring that each hat is crafted with care, precision, and love. Whether you're looking for a timeless classic or a bold statement piece, the experience of having a custom hat made just for you is one to be treasured.