Wilmington boutique prepares for Azalea Festival fashion

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Azalea Festival returns next week, bringing a slate of events including the street fair, parade, and the annual Garden Party.

As the festival approaches, a Wilmington boutique is helping attendees prepare for one of its most fashion-forward traditions.

Large hats and fascinators, floral headbands, are staples of the Garden Party, an event known for its elaborate spring style.

Meadowlark Boutique, located on Military Cutoff Road, is stocked with handcrafted hats and fascinators designed for the occasion.

The pieces feature silk and organza details and are created by New York City milliner Christine A. Moore, an official hat designer for the Kentucky Derby.

Shop owner Kendall Hurt said the headpieces give people a chance to express their creativity and have become a seasonal favorite.

“I think elevate is a really great way to put it, elevate your look and a hat, they kind of go in and out of style right, but you can really kind of bank on every time this year, Easter, the Derby, and our North Carolina Azalea Festival, that’s the time that you get to pull out that cherry on top and adorn your outfit with a great hat,” said Hurt.

The Airlie Luncheon Garden Party is scheduled for Friday, April 10.