Threads of Identity: How a French Beret Told My Story on the Runway

A few days ago, a Facebook memory stopped me mid-scroll.It was a photo from last year’s Threads of Power Fashion Show in Milwaukee—an image that captured a look I styled featuring a classic Laulhère beret. At first glance, it might appear to be just a well-styled accessory. But for me, it represented far more:My heritage. My voice. My intention as a stylist.

The Threads of Power theme focused on culture—how it shapes identity and influences the way we present ourselves through fashion. For me, this was a moment to not only style, but to contribute to the conversation by sharing my own cultural story.

🇫🇷 Honoring My French Heritage Through Style

I’m French. So for me, the beret isn’t a trend—it’s a symbol. A cultural marker woven into art, fashion, resistance, and identity.

In curating my looks for the show, I asked myself: What part of my culture do I want to honor on that runway? What visual language best expresses who I am and what I bring to the table as a stylist?

That led me directly to the Laulhère beret—a refined piece of French craftsmanship that would ground the entire look in both personal and cultural significance.

Why Laulhère?

Founded in 1840 in the French Pyrenees, Laulhère is one of the last remaining traditional beret houses in France. Each piece is handmade with heritage techniques, carrying decades of history in every thread.

Styling this beret wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about symbolism. I wanted the look to feel grounded, intentional, and quietly powerful. The Laulhère beret delivered that and more. It gave the model presence. It carried a message: this look has roots.

Collaboration with McLaughlin & Hayes

To bring this vision to life, I partnered with McLaughlin & Hayes Hat Co., a heritage Milwaukee brand known for timeless headwear. They graciously loaned me the Laulhère beret for the show, allowing me to pair international craftsmanship with local collaboration.

As a stylist working in both digital and physical spaces, I believe the most powerful fashion stories are those that bridge cultures and communities. This collaboration allowed me to embody that belief on the runway.

Styling with Intention

The beret wasn’t the finishing touch—it was the anchor.It set the tone for the entire look. It balanced elegance with edge, structure with softness. It was subtle, but unmistakably meaningful.

This is how I approach styling—whether it’s for a runway show, a personal branding shoot, or a client wardrobe. For me, styling is never random. It’s a visual strategy. A way to help someone tell the world who they are—without saying a word.

A Defining Creative Moment

Looking back, this wasn’t just another show.This moment reminded me that I’m not only a stylist—I’m a storyteller. And every story starts with intention.

By choosing to highlight my culture on that stage, I was contributing to a broader narrative. I was honoring my roots, offering a piece of myself to the audience, and reinforcing a value I hold close: style should always reflect identity.

Final Reflection

The Laulhère beret symbolized more than fashion.It represented a part of me. A part of France. A part of the stylist I’ve become—someone who curates, elevates, and connects through intentional design.

Fashion is what we wear.Style is what we say with it.

And in that moment on the runway, I was proud to say something personal and powerful.

– Jason OrleansStylist | Creative Director | Personal Branding Specialist

→ Want to work with a stylist who curates with meaning—not just trends?[Explore my portfolio], follow me on Instagram @JasonOrleansStyle, or book a consultation to experience styling rooted in identity, intention, and impact.