Queen of the Month: Nicole Erwin
Published
Following in My Mother’s Footsteps: My Journey into the Red Hat Society
Some stories are full of sparkle, joy, and heart—and this month’s Queen of the Month, Nicole Erwin, reminds us that the bonds we build in sisterhood often begin with the women who raised us.
Nicole’s Red Hat journey is deeply rooted in the legacy of her beloved mother, Strassia Erwin, affectionately known by her chapter as the Baroness of Optimism. A devoted and joyful member of the Red Hat Society, Strassia lived and shared the values of fun, friendship, freedom, and fulfillment, proudly wearing her title on a specially made pin and lighting up every gathering with her infectious spirit.
From her earliest days, Nicole witnessed the magic of Red Hat life by her mother’s side. Dressed in pink and lavender as a young “Pinkie,” she was enveloped in laughter, kindness, and the warm embrace of women celebrating life together. These moments shaped her, and after her mother’s passing in 2012, Nicole felt a deep calling to carry forward the joy and optimism her mother embodied.
When Nicole officially joined the Red Hat Society, she did so not just in honor of a beloved tradition—but to carry forward a living tribute. In one of the most meaningful moments of her journey, she was hatted with her mother’s very own red hat—a beautiful and emotional symbol of connection and legacy.
Today, Nicole proudly reigns as a member of The Glamorous Ladies, her Red Hat chapter, wearing her mother’s cherished pins—including the one bearing the title Baroness of Optimism. Through every gathering, she carries forward her mother’s spirit, reminding those around her of the power of positivity, resilience, and joy.
In Nicole’s own words:
“Being a part of the Red Hat Society is an honor, but it is also deeply personal. It is a tribute to my mother… And just like her, I plan to wear my colors proudly, embrace each moment, and carry on the legacy of laughter, love, and sisterhood.”
For this heartfelt journey, and in beautiful tribute to her mother, we are honored to name Nicole Erwin as our Queen of the Month.