EXPRESS
Ben Franklin Beauties
BY JD DOTSON
For 27 years, Ben Franklin Crafts in New Albany
has been Southern Indiana’s go-to supply stock
up store for all kinds of crafts persons and artists.
Home to an eclectic mix of gifts and accessories,
frame shop, fabric store, and the largest collection
of art, crafting and scrapbooking supplies, Ben
Franklin’s also makes your Derby ensemble easily
customizable and unique. Their collection of
fascinators and women’s hats range from subtle
and demure to show-stopper and avant-garde.
Hats are ready to go right out of the store, or
for the extra personal touch can be embellished
by a team of designers to match an outfit or a
personal style.
Ben Franklin Crafts even has every bit, piece
and part, feather, ribbon and sequins, and hat or
fascinator base for the DIY crafter to build their
own masterpiece.
Ben Franklin’s also did not forget about the guys
and carries a huge selection of handmade local
bowties and pocket squares by local designer Ethan
Thomas. Ethan’s use of pattern and color add a
bit of spring flair to a Derby suit. Top the look off
with one of their straw hats, add a feather in the
band and you are ready to place bets.
Ben Franklin also carries a line of clear and
correctly-sized bags to comply with Churchill
Downs’ regulations, as well as a credit card,
tamper-free wallet to keep your bank account
safe from thieves.
We have picked out a few of our favorites.
We loved the white flowers crossing sideways on the
white hat for a chic and unique effect. $129.99 We loved this unusual color combination fascinator.
$29.99 This hot pink and white piece affixes with a
headband. $125
The bold and bright salmon-colored fascinator will
definitely stand out in a crowd. $64.99 The looped ribbons, peacock feathers and giant gem
fascinator is an artistic head-turner, $49.99 Lavender is lovely in this feathered hat.
$119.99
74 EXTOL : APRIL/MAY 2018