My vintage mannequin collection is one of the most important parts of what I do: whilst many shops make do with reproductions, the real deal have a soul and integrity that I find is lacking in their modern mass-produced cousins.

A few years ago I found this little early ’40s cutie at Leonard Joel’s and I knew she had to come home with me.

We’ve been putting her to good use recently, photographing hats for the webshop, but realised with astonishment that we’d neglected to name her! Cue a roll call of ’40s movie stars – Rita? Judy? Joan? Veronica? Ladies and gentlemen, we have a winner!

Veronica Lake was known best for her peek-a-boo hairstyle, later borrowed by Jessica Rabbit, perhaps the sexiest fictional character ever – part Veronica Lake, part Rita Hayworth.

Veronica famously changed her trademark hairstyle after her wartime fans were risking their lives operating factory machinery with their locks falling in front of their faces. Ms Lake joined a campaign for womens safety: practicality first, glamour second!

You could cut glass on those cheek bones.

Here’s a safety film she made as part of her war effort – suddenly all those fabulous ’40s updos and snoods make sense.

(If you’re reading this on email, click on this link to see the video).

Meanwhile, back at Circa you can now see our Veronica modelling hats for your consideration – here’s my current favourite, from the ’30s with a sequinned calla lily motif.

She looks equally smashing in a 1950s straw with upturned brim.

Click on the images to see more about the hats.