Sisters with hattitude

Ebony, April, 2005

NOTHING defines a queen quite like her crown. Not to be confused with a simple hat, the crown--a handcrafted, breathtaking bonnet, painstakingly beaded with baubles and jewels, or perhaps a funkadelic relic fused sky high with foliage or fur or feathers--is much more than an accessory; it is a soulful blend of style and spirituality that has been a tradition of Black church ladies for, decades of Sundays.

And now the crowns are traveling far beyond the sacred pews, as they have become the centerpiece of a divine Sisterhood.

And in this divine Sisterhood, there are rules, including never allowing others to touch your crown, and above all else, never allowing anyone to wear your crown.

Here, four Sisters showcase some stylish crowns. (Note the power of the crown, and how it can change the wearer's look and mood instantly, all by itself.)

SUPERSTAR

Native New Yorker Allison Hunter Williams, an executive news producer, steps out in this rich ebony "Beatrice" crown with silk fabric trim and oversized feathers, by Carmen R. Henry.

SOCIALITES

Sharon Thomas, an entrepreneur from Houston, dazzles in this lime green straw hat with a multihued silk fabric trim and blazing red feathers. Television producer Allison Hunter Williams makes a bold--yet classy--fashion statement in a corn yellow crown with silk trim and antique beading.

SCION

Entrepreneur Omera Mahon turns heads in the elegant "Audrey" crown by renowned milliner Eric Javits. Add a string of pearls to complete a look that conveys class and wealth.

SHOWSTOPPERS

If you've got it, flaunt it, girlfriend. Sharon (from I.) showcases the wide-brimmed "Foxy Upsweep" felt hat in crimson; Allison wears "Nocturne" cocktail hat, (designed by Kokin), with silk flowers and a veil; and Omera models a flirty "Boa Feather" hat.

Jewelry: 2 Xcel Etc. Boutique, Oak Park, Ill.

Crowns: Southern Belle, Sophisticated Lady, Siren and Socialites crowns designed by Carmen R. Henry, www.carmenrhenrydesigns.com; Scion, Showstoppers crowns available at the Dianne O. Studio, in Solana Beach, Calif., and online, www.dianneo.com. Vehicles: 200,5 Maybach, 62-foot luxury sedan, and 2005 Cadillac XLR convertible, courtesy of Motor Werks of Barrington, III. "Monte Carlo" bejeweled halter top (page 107) available at www.theabicollection.com.

SOUTHERN BELLE

The "Beverly" crown, accented with rhinestones and a cascade of pure white silk roses, is perfect for a day at the beach, a midday brunch or all inspirational Sunday morning service.

SOPHISTICATED LADY

Shrinking violets come alive in this lavender "La Unissa" crown. This one is designed for styling and profiling, as worn by author Gina P. Barge. Caution: Make certain that your crown is properly secured before cruising in your drop-lop!

SIREN

Fall into a fuchsia fantasy with this sexy and suspenseful crown. This striking straw spectacle dips and curves, offering a different view from every angle--and the dainty feathers add a hint of whimsy.