Gigi Burris Millinery stemmed from the designer’s passionate love of both headwear and unique luxury. Burris’ existing interest in millinery was heightened after studying at Parsons Paris and frequent visits to the old world mercerie shops there. After returning to New York City, she studied under couture milliner Leah Chalfen at Parsons School of Design and then apprenticed with Chalfen in her personal studio. Burris graduated with a BFA from Parsons in 2009, where she was nominated for the Designer of the Year award.