On Friday, December 2, 2011, the Transition Center of Schoolcraft College will host a tea party luncheon, and hats are encouraged. Valerie Greech will discuss "History and Design of Women's Hat Wear" at 11:30 a.m. in the VisTaTech Center on the college's main campus in Livonia, Haggerty Road between Six and Seven Mile Roads.  spent many years living abroad attending events which required wearing hats. Once she moved to the United States, her interest in hats grew as she starting collecting and researching vintage hats. Reservations are $20 per person and include a delicious lunch prepared by the college's Food Services Department. Reservations must be made by November 23 by mail (a form is available at www.schoolcraft.edu/transition/) or by calling (734) 462-4443.

Greech will highlight the hat wearing tradition, which reached its zenith in the 1920s and officially ended with the “swinging 60s.” A brief history of the origin of the most popular hat styles is included, along with stories about the wearers who made them famous. Anecdotes and historical facts make this lecture an interesting look into a bygone age.During her presentation, Greech will showcase some of her own vintage hat collection. She is a consultant for the shop “Detroit Vintage,” which is often mentioned in In-Style magazine.

Greech's presentation is part of the Transition Center Luncheon Series. Proceeds benefit the scholarship programs of the Transition Center that are are directed to the needs of non-traditional college students. For more information visit http://www.schoolcraft.edu/transition/.