What is a Fascinator Hat? – What are Fascinators?
A fascinator or fascinator hat is a head piece that is worn on a ladies head but differs from a normal hat, as it is mounted on base, usually a headband or comb and fastened to their hair and are most commonly worn at weddings and horse racing events.
The fascinator’s origins can be traced back to the grandes dames of the 18th century, when hair pieces in the form of powdered wigs were so large that hats became impossible to wear and fell out of ladies’ fashion. Instead, the powdered wigs were festooned with all manner of ornaments, trinkets, jewels, ribbon and feathers – this included large items such as large replica carriages, replica sailing ships and even bird cages with live birds inside! And so the fascinator, not quite as we know it today, was born. Fascinator hats, largely extinct by the 1970s, the fascinator has had a real revival in the noughties, and is now used as an alternative to hats both at weddings, other formal occasions (such as Ladies Day at Ascot) and even at evening parties, where they are sometimes referred to as a cocktail hats.
How are Fascinators worn?
How to wear a fascinator…? Well, a fascinator can be worn in many different ways, and depending on its style, it can be worn to the front or the side of the head. A fascinator can also be worn as you would a tiara or towards the back of the head if your hair is to be dressed up in a chignon or curls.
Hair fascinators are usually attached to hair combs, beak clips, alligator clips and headbands. Many fascinators are created with ribbon, feathers, flowers, diamanties, crystals and other materials such as voile, satin and chiffon. Fascinators and fascinator hats are available in many colours, styles and types so we hope you will find something that you are looking for in our fascinator range.
How do I care for my Fascinators?
Fascinators are very easy to care for and as long as you follow a few simple suggestions, should remain in perfect condition for many years to come. Always store your fascinators in the fascinator box provided when not in use. This will ensure your fascinators stays clean, prevents it from becoming dusty or getting crushed. Try to store your fascinator at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. This will help prevent your fascinator from becoming brittle or fading. And lastly whenever possible try to keep your fascinator or tiara dry.
