The word "fascinator" is often defined as "a fine, crocheted, knitted or lace triangle that was used as a shawl worn around the shoulders or as head covering".
But in this case a "hair fascinator" actually refers to the extravagant hair adornment, that sits somewhere between a simple hair accessory and a small, fancy cocktail hat. It can be attached with a clip, a hair comb or headband.
These elaborate headpieces can be found in a variety of shapes, styles and colours and are generally made out of a combination of feathers, beads, flowers or netting. They can incorporate beaded flowers, fabric flowers, bows, feather flowers and bows, tulle, netting, and much more.
There are many types of looks and styles, from simple bows to completely outrageous and fun designs with huge feathers and decorations.
The hatinator is another type of headpiece that is very similar to a fascinator, yet a hatinator has a much larger base, and can often resemble a tiny hat with a fascinator attached.
Fascinators are particularly popular at many horse-racing events, such as the Melbourne Cup, in Australia, and other special sporting events. They go well with the often extravagant and flamboyant outfits that are commonly worn. Subtler fascinators can be worn with a more elegant dress, or a lot of trimming on the fascinator can be used to enhance the whole outfit of a more understated dress.
Frequently Asked Questions
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QUESTION:
What is the British tradition of wearing fancy hats to weddings (I'm American & have a UK wedding to go to)?!
I have lived in the UK for 5 years, but have only just been invited to my first wedding in this country! It's my understanding that women usually wear fancy hats (or sometimes feather fascinators) to weddings? I am a bit reluctant to do so because I think I'll look stupid! Am I expected to wear a hat, and/or if I don't, will I be the only one without one? Is it OK to wear a fascinator instead, as I think I may feel a bit more comfortable wearing one of those (plus they're a bit less expensive than hats!) Any advice would be really appreciated!!!Scottish Wedding InvitationsIf you are thinking of having a traditional Scottish wedding you will want everything that goes with it. People tend to associate Scottish weddings with historic castles, beautiful scenery, country dancing and some scotch whisky. But as well as getting your bagpipes and Scottish thistles in place you will also want to get some Scottish Wedding Invitations so that people can idea and feel of your wedding theme before it all takes place. You may be stuck for ideas for a Scottish wedding invitation so here are some of our top ideas to give your wedding stationery that traditional Scottish...
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ANSWER:
There's no obligation for you to wear a hat, except if you're one of the principles. A feather creation will look good, depending on the style of outfit that you choose.
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QUESTION:
Can I wear black to a Scottish wedding?
I am going to the UK for the first time with my Scottish boyfriend to visit family and friends and most importantly, attend a wedding on the west coast of Scotland. I have been to many American weddings and almost always wear little black dresses, along with many other guests. Is this acceptable in Scotland? Also, I see many women wear little hats or fascinators which looks like fun. Am I mistaken or is this really common?Anyway, I just want to be appropriate, especially as I will be meeting most of my boyfriend's friends for the first time. Don't want to show up in a black cocktail dress and have everyone think I'm dressed for a New York funeral!
Forgot to mention, I have indeed inundated my boyfriend with questions but he has only been to one wedding and was unfortunately not paying much attention to what ladies were wearing
Not very observant!-
ANSWER:
Ask your boyfriend if it would be appropriate.
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QUESTION:
Fashion Advice Required for the Melbourne Cup?
Ok - I know this is the wrong section but you answerers in the weddings are always so much better than the fashion category!I am hopeless with fashion so want some advice on how to look great for the Melbourne Cup this year. I am going to wear this dress...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25906286@N04/3557568987/
It's a little hard to see but it is fitted and rouched all the way down with a high neckline with thick straps.I don't want to wear black with it like in that photo so I was wondering what you thought of adding gold or cream coloured accessories instead to make it more 'light' and daytime appropriate?
Maybe a fascinator like this one?
http://www.hatsfromoz.com.au/catalog/images/hats_images/fashion/S880_cream.jpgI have reasonably short hair which I am growing out but the bottom layer won't be much past my shoulders by the time of melbourne cup.
What to get as a wedding gift to a young scottish couple?I am Israeli and have no idea what is acceptable as far as wedding gifts are concerned in the UK.HELPWedding gifts traditionally are household goods to help a couple set up their home - bed linen, dishes, glasses, towels, small appliances and so on. The couple may have registered at a department store which will give you a list of what they have chosen. Failing that something nice and in good taste that can be used in the home is appropriate....Any advice, comments, ideas would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
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ANSWER:
Alright here goes.
Thing about races... Is you can go out and get couture. I totally recommend this. I actually love the fascinator but I don't know how well it goes with the dress. It may go better if you have a bolero or something that is airy and modern something like this:In a cream color
http://www.etsy.com/listing/53603985/the-aristocrat-wedding-bridal-or-special?ref=sr_list_9&ga_search_query=Couture+shrug&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&order=&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title
Or even something like this
http://www.etsy.com/listing/53606096/beauty-parade-fashion-glamour-felted?ref=v1_other_2
Although the above may be difficult considering the strapless ness of your dress... It could still add a ton of drama.Wear them with some crazy loud shoes... Maybe vintage maybe even gold...
http://www.etsy.com/listing/48129269/sale-gold-dancin-shoes?ref=sr_list_4&ga_search_query=Gold+shoes&ga_search_type=vintage&ga_page=3&order=&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title
The above aren't loud except in color but would go so well with the fascinator you pictured and would go a long way to making your outfit a blast.
Luck!
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QUESTION:
I'm look for dress & shoes ideas/suggestions? I'm in a pickle :[?
I'm going to one of my closest friends weddings in July, so summery, posh & civil (which I think means more leeway in outfits!)And I'm so totally stuck
All I have as a starting point is a tophat fascinator - http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/accessories/mini-top-hat-with-flower_190844801?icSort=-bestSellerScore [NOT this one, but very much like it, and completely black no pink rose for me!]
Any ideas/suggestions for the rest of the outfit/accessories/shoes etc etc?! I literally just have the hat :]
Ta for any help, it's much appreciated
XxxX-
ANSWER:
Try a loose-fitting white shirt (see if you can find one that has lace), and a black corset over it.
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