Historicallyspeaking, it was customary to wear protective headpieces in the 60s—untilfashion took over and decorating such head coverings became normal.
Enter:fascinators.
Fascinatorsreally are a fascinating thing. These large decorative pieces have been aformal headwear in Europe, alternative to a hat. They can be worn using a clipor a comb attached to it, or a fascinator headband style to add. Up to this day,its artistry remains a favourite among women.
Sowhen are you supposed to wear fascinators and hats?
It’salways good to add a splash of colour and design that compliments your outfit.In almost any day, whether it be a special event, a formal gathering, or in ano-particular Saturday afternoon, fascinators can give you that extra elegance.Knowing the kind of fascinator to use for such occasions are also important.
Weddings
We’veseen them—the sea of fascinators during royal weddings. From baroque styles,ribbons in pinks and purples, to feathery ones, fascinators are essentialdecorative pieces for women during this special event. But you don’t have to bein attendance at high-profile English weddings for you to wear your fascinator.In any wedding, you can always flash your favorite headpiece, even blackfascinators. Just take note of the dress code, style of the wedding, and theright size and type of the fascinator that matches your outfit. Opting to weara hat? Choose the right size enough not to cover the audience at the back.
Formals andGala nights
Fromdebutante balls, luxury nights, high school events and proms, to evening wear,you can be a head-turner with a stylish fascinatoron. Fascinators are traditionally worn on the right side but wearing fascinators onthe left is still as flattering. Make sure it’s slightly tilted forward. Ifyou’re going for a sleek, hair down look, choose a bigger fascinator.
SummerShindigs
Forbeach parties and summer getaways, you can model a straw fascinator orincorporate flower crowns. While normal hats and caps are ideal for the summerheat, simple fascinators can give you light and airy mood. You can choose towear a fascinator hatstyle though, just make sure it does not cover your eyebrows. As always, choosethe ones with a breathable fabric.
co*cktail andTea Parties
Whenyou are invited to such parties, even fundraiser events, a fascinator will helpyou add some fun while maintaining that glamour and elegance. The size of yourfascinator matters too. Style your hair up and use a small fascinator if youchoose a slicked-back style and a medium-size fascinator if your hair is loose.
Race day
Whatbetter occasion to associate fascinators there is than race days. They arefairly popular in horse-racing events. Since it’s all about style and grace,women are found sporting fascinators during autumn season. You can play aroundfascinators with darker tone and block colours for a glamourous headwear. Fascinator headbands are just as fashionable on thisoccasion.
Whilefascinators are generally worn in formal attire, they can also add flair to anyother special events and dress occasions such as vintage-themed parties. Andfor some normal days, you can simply dress up and add a simple headpiece on.
Whenchoosing your fascinator, it’s always good to start with your outfit and shoes,its colors, and size. Choose your fascinator that match the occasion. Beintricate about the fabric—heavier for cold season, lighter for the hot season.Check your overall look and lastly have your hair done before adding thefascinator. If you need help choosing one, here’s a wide array for fascinatorsfor you.
FAQs
A fascinator is a formal headpiece for women, often worn as an alternative to a hat. They are worn to occasions such as premium horse racing events, weddings and may even be worn by brides as an alternative to a veil.
When should you wear a fascinator hat? ›
A fascinator is a high-society headpiece that is often worn by women at weddings and other events in the U.K. It's an alternative to a hat and usually consists of a large decorative design attached to a band or clip.
Should I wear a hat or a fascinator? ›
If you are wearing a hat you will need to consider wearing it all day, or face the dreaded hat hair underneath. You don't have this problem with fascinators. Fascinators can be worn for the whole day. They look great both at the service and at an evening reception.
What events do you wear fascinators? ›
Hair fascinators for weddings have long been a favourite hair accessory for wedding guests and the Mother of the Bride, but fascinators can also be worn at christenings, co*cktail parties, summer soirees and formal events. Hats and fascinators have also become hugely popular accessory for the races.
What is the purpose of a fascinator hat? ›
Since the 1990s, the term has referred to a type of formal headwear worn as an alternative to the hat; it is usually a large decorative design attached to a band or clip. In contrast to a hat, its function is purely ornamental: it covers very little of the head and offers little or no protection from the weather.
What is the etiquette for wearing a fascinator? ›
Fascinators are usually worn on the right side of the head. This is a historical tradition originating from when women always stood on the right side of a man as his sword was always carried on the left. Therefore, women's hats tilted to the to the right so that it wouldn't shield her face from him.
Do you keep a fascinator on all day at a wedding? ›
Finally, the mother of the bride dictates when other women remove their hats, hatinators or fascinators. Until she removes her hat, other women guests are expected to leave theirs on. Often they are left on during the wedding breakfast. Armed with a little knowledge, you can now get ahead with your hat preparation.
Who should wear a fascinator at a wedding? ›
If the wedding will be a formal or semi formal occasion then other women may / will wear hats or fascinators; if it is to be a more casual affiar, some women may choose to wear neither. Wear your fascinator with aplomb and élan and enjoy the experience.
Are fascinators still in fashion 2023 for wedding? ›
The fascinator is perfect for adding the final flourishing touch to a wedding outfit, with the leafy hue making it particularly lovely for countryside dos. Anchored with a flower in full bloom, it's designed to be positioned across the face. Best paired with an elegant chignon and simple jewels.
Do you wear a fascinator to evening reception? ›
Fascinators look lovely at both the service and at an evening reception.
Fascinated by Fascinators
It's a classy tradition, but can make the view of the ceremony slightly obstructed with colorful feathers. There are worse things in life. There is no such tradition in America, and hats are not particularly common things to wear to a wedding.
Can you wear a fascinator with a floral dress? ›
When you want to stand out, choose bright blooms in head-turning hues. Perfect for the races, just add a fascinator, heels and matching jacket, and you'll more than meet the dress code.
Do you wear a fascinator to a wedding reception? ›
If the wedding you're attending is a very formal occasion, a hat or fascinator is recommended and it should ideally match the colour of your dress or two-piece – whether it's the same shade or a complementary hue.
Can you wear a fascinator with straight hair? ›
Fascinator Design types
They are typically smaller in size and come in a wide range of styles, from delicate and dainty to bold and statement-making. They can be worn with any hairstyle, whether it's long, short, curly or straight, and they can also be easily adjusted to fit any head size.
Is it rude to not wear a fascinator to a wedding? ›
Can women get away with not wearing a fascinator or hat? “Yes, but if on the invitation you are requested to wear one please do. If not, you are breaking their dress code, which is the height of bad manners. I would also like to add that hats are more suitable as there is nothing fascinating about a fascinator.”
Do people still wear fascinators? ›
Fascinators are a staple for many formal occasions, and they are the perfect alternative to a fully-fledged hat.
Is it appropriate to wear a fascinator to an evening wedding? ›
If the wedding you're attending is a very formal occasion, a hat or fascinator is recommended and it should ideally match the colour of your dress or two-piece – whether it's the same shade or a complementary hue.
Should you wear your hair up with a fascinator? ›
If you want to wear a fascinator with your hair slicked back, then go with a smaller one. If you're going to wear your hair loosely pulled up, then a medium size is probably best. Wear a large fascinator if you're wearing your hair down and in a voluminous style.
Can I wear fascinator to dinner? ›
Formals and Gala nights. From debutante balls, luxury nights, high school events and proms, to evening wear, you can be a head-turner with a stylish fascinator on. Fascinators are traditionally worn on the right side but wearing fascinators on the left is still as flattering. Make sure it's slightly tilted forward.
