What’s a fascinator?

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Fascinators are headdresses worn by women that attach to the hair instead of a hat. They come in various sizes and styles, with feathers, ribbons, and beads being common decorations. They are typically worn at formal events, such as weddings and horse races, but can also be worn to church or parties. Fascinators can be made cheaply and easily, or purchased in a range of styles and prices.

A fascinator is a headdress designed to be attached to the hair instead of a hat. Traditionally, fascinators are worn only by women, and are usually paired with formal wear, although one might wear a fascinator on less formal occasions. These hairpieces vary widely in size, shape, and style, from modest versions to decadent creations in feathers, silk, and tulle.

Any number of things can be included in a fascinator, usually attached to the head with a comb, pin, clip, or headband. Feathers and ribbons are common, along with silk flowers, but it is also possible to see ribbons, various fabrics, and beads, among other things. In some cases, a fascinator even wobbles at the hat line, looking more like a small hat and less like a hairpiece.

Fascinators were especially popular in the early 20th century, and for some examples of classic fascinators, flapper hairstyles are often a great go-to. Fascinators can be used to draw attention to unique or intricate hairstyles, to complement fine formal wear, and to dress up a more casual look. These days, women have fewer causes to don a fascinator: They tend to turn up at weddings and formal horse racing events more than anywhere else.

The diversity of fascinators allows them to be used in a variety of ways. More subdued fascinators, for example, can be worn to church, and some have partial veils, for women who like to wear modest veils while in mourning. Sweeping and festive fascinators can draw attention to someone’s head at a party, with feathers, frills and other decorations, and fascinators made with fresh flowers can grace the heads of members of a wedding party. At formal events where fascinators are common, such as Ascot races in England, women’s fascinators can compete for attention, with heavily ornate styles being quite common.

One of the advantages of a fascinator, as opposed to a hat, is that a fascinator can be created cheaply, easily, and quickly, although it is also possible to purchase a fascinator. Some crafters enjoy making custom fascinators to match various outfits, and creating a fascinator can be a fun project. Manufactured fascinators range in style and quality, from extremely expensive gemstone-embellished versions to much less expensive and more modest styles.




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