Wear your fascinator with confidence

A fascinator is a small headpiece different from a hat because it has decorations mounted on a base like a comb, headband or clip, and attached to the head. They are made of various types of fabrics and materials, all of which are combined to create a unique design and can be worn to weddings, cocktail parties, Polo races, garden or tea party. A few common materials used to create fascinators include:

• Sinamay: A fabric made from banana plant fibers and is often used to make the base of a fascinator, as well as decorative loops or curls.
• Feathers: Such as goose, ostrich, guinea fowl, or peacock.
• Crinoline: A stiff fabric that‘s used to create architectural decorative elements.
• Lace: Which adds a delicate beauty to pretty much anything.
• Silk flowers: A fairly traditional decorative element that adds a touch of femininity to a fascinator.

Fascinators will usually come attached to one of three things: a comb, a clip, or a hairband.

• Hairband: It is the easiest fascinator attachment as it sits across the crown of your head, and supports the fascinator. Once you wear it, your fascinator won’t move.
• Comb: It is the most comfortable fascinator attachment and it works best with thick hair and updos, so that it has something to grip to.
• Clip: It is the most versatile of the three attachments as it can be worn with any hairstyle and hair type. It is usually used for small, lightweight fascinators.

Etiquette of wearing a fascinator

·         Yes, there are etiquette rules for wearing any type of fascinators.

Remember that others cannot see through your fabulous headwear, so out of kindness for others who may want to watch the goings-on, do not wear a fascinator at the symphony, movie theater, or any occasion with stadium seating.

·         Also, if you are taller than your escort, you may not want to wear a towering fascinator.

Quick rules for styling a fascinator

• A fascinator is usually worn to the side, and traditionally it is the right side.
• If your fascinator comes with an elastic strap, don’t wear it under your chin. Instead, wear it behind your ears and fasten it to the nape of your neck with bobby pins.
• Keep it in proportion to your head, body, and hairstyle size. For example, if you have a big head or big hear, do not wear a dainty fascinator.
• Keep your hairstyle simple so it does not distract from your fashion accessory. A simple ponytail, a slicked-back style, or a slightly-curled free-falling style look best.
• Keep it stylish and classy. There is no need to sport a 3-foot ostrich feather off the top of your head! Start small and simple.
• Consider the event you’re attending. If it’s the races, you can go as crazy as you like, but if it’s a friend’s wedding or a Christening, you may want to choose a more subdued fascinator.
• Think about what you are wearing, and choose a fascinator accordingly. Fussy dresses require simple fascinators, while a plain dress leaves more room for you to add drama with your choice of fascinator.
• Invest in a good hatbox to store your fascinator when not in use. This will keep it free of dust, and ensure it stays in perfect condition until the next time you wear it.
• Lastly but most importantly, wear your fascinator with confidence!