Where Warmth & Light Take Shape in Handmade Form.
About Me.
Mielaurora (mee-YELL-ow-ROH-rah) began with a trip to Montréal and a need for a hat. I wanted something light and breathable; something like straw, but softer. When I couldn’t find what I was looking for, I made it myself. I discovered raffia yarn, worked in a spiral (my favorite way to crochet), and shaped my first sun hat in just a few days.
The name Mielaurora began years ago, when my friends’ daughters affectionately called me Miss Honey Dawn and they suggested it as a future business name. The name stayed with me, but when I later began building this creative practice, I found it was already in use. So, I translated its essence instead: miel for honey and aurora for dawn. Mielaurora honors that early spark while giving the brand its own luminous identity.
Mielaurora is about warmth, light, and the joy of making something that will make someone happy. —- Dawn
Hats
Each hat is crocheted, stitch by stitch with raffia yarn, a lightweight, paper‑based fiber made from wood pulp. No two are exactly alike. Slight variations in shape, color, stitch tension, yarn tone, or brim curve are part of the charm—and reflect the care and individuality of the crafting process.
A breathable classic with a playful twist. Each cloche hat features either a bold two-tone palette or a calming solid hue. The crown sits comfortably, while the brim offers just the right balance between structure and ease. Not too stiff, not too floppy—just enough to shade your eyes.
Vintage-inspired and softly structured, this style channels the charm of the past with a modern, sensory-safe touch. The brim holds its shape with a slight curl—perfect for sunny strolls and statement moments.
A relaxed take on the classic cloche, this style features a curly brim. Ideal for beach days, garden lounging, or market wandering, it offers extra shade and movement while staying light and breathable. Colors vary, always curated for comfort and joy.
Accessories
Each flower pin is crocheted by hand, giving every piece its own subtle variations in shape and texture. No two are exactly alike—each one carries the small, natural irregularities that make handmade work feel alive.
This 10-Petal Raffia Flower is the perfect accessory to pin to your blouse or cloche hat. Bring a bit of quirkiness to your clothing with this pin. Flowers come in various colors.
This Loopy Flower Pin catches the attention of all who see it with its curly looped petals. Add to clothing or your cloche for added sass. Flowers come in various colors.
FAQs
How are your hats made?All hats and flowers are made from raffia yarn, a lightweight, paper‑based fiber made from wood pulp.. Each hat in crocheted in a spiral using single crochet stitches. The brims are finished with half double crochet for a subtle shift in texture and firmness.
What inspires your designs?My work is inspired by Wayuu tapestry crochet. I love the bold colorwork and storytelling. I let the spiral guide the flow rather than aligning stitches traditionally. I hope to explore tapestry-style patterns in future collections.
Do you offer custom sizing or bespoke hatsYes — on a by‑appointment basis. When a hat is made to order, the process takes a bit longer than purchasing a ready‑made hat. At this time, custom orders are local only (Chicago) and handled case by case. At the moment I don’t ship hats.
Do you sell other items?Yes! I sell crochet flowers that you can wear pinned to clothing or your hat. I will have bags, earrings and necklaces available soon!.
Can I pin flowers or accessories to the hats?Yes—with care. Avoid pinning directly into the raffia fiber, as it can weaken the structure. Use loops or reinforced areas instead.
Can I wash my hat in the washing machine?No. Raffia pieces should be kept dry and spot‑cleaned gently with a damp cloth. Store flat or hangi to protect the brim, and avoid long sun exposure when not in use. Don’t pin directly into the raffia—use loops or seams instead. Refresh with a light mist of water and essential oil, but avoid alcohol or witch hazel. To stretch the hat, mist lightly and place a rolled towel inside the crown until dry.
Contact me at mielaurora@outlook.com.
I sell my hats and accessories exclusively at Chicago pop‑ups and artisan markets. Custom‑sized hats are available on a limited, by‑appointment basis for local customers. Made to order hats take a bit longer than purchasing a ready‑made piece. I don’t ship hats at the moment.
I’ll be popping up at the Andersonville Galleria (5247 N. Clark St. Chicago 60640) on Sunday, June 28, 2026. I’d love to see you there.
Check back soon for more upcoming market dates and new products.—-Dawn