Fascinator: A Royal Headgear

A fascinator is a royal headgear. Fascinators are like spices. If added in the right proportions and at the right time, they make the meal perfect! A piece that lends an air of sophistication to your outfit.

To start with, fascinators date back to ancient times. They were hair ornaments worn by the European royalty. They are a type of hat. However, they are large and decorative. Moreover, they are a decorative design attached to a band or clip. The design includes things such as feathers, ribbons, flowers or bows. Also, they are usually perched on the top or side of the head. Interestingly, they do not fully cover the wearer’s head. Almost everyone in the royal family wears them. And a royal wedding is incomplete without fashionable fascinators!

Krown Kouture gives you a history of these pieces followed by a guide to wearing them. It depends on the outfit, color, shape of your face and the occasion.

Where did it originate?

Since ancient times, it was customary for Christian women in Europe to wear some sort of head covering. In fact, the European fashion of decorating the head dates back to the late Renaissance era of the 16th century. It all started with the Baroque era of the 17th century head decorations. Also, queen Marie Antoinette made the fashion of using ostrich feathers as a head decoration popular among the European royal courts. Although, it was still affordable only to the aristocracy and upper class.

While, in the 19th century, a fascinator was also a lightweight hood or scarf worn about the head. It was typically knitted or crocheted. However, the fascinator went out of fashion in the 1930s. Finally, the use of the term ‘fascinator’ emerged towards the end of the late 20th century. It meant the cocktail hats, designed to perch upon the highly coiffed hairstyles of the period. Although, they did not give the style its name, the trend caught up. In fact, the milliners Stephen Jones and Philip Treacy popularized and established fascinators.

Today, a fascinator adorns occasions where hats are customary, sometimes serving as an evening accessory. It is generally worn with fairly formal attire. In addition, fascinators are frequently worn by women as a Christian head covering during church services, especially weddings. Also, on a number of royal heads.

Outfit and the Choice

Firstly, before choosing a fascinator, it is always advisable to put on the outfit that you will wear. It is important to realize the clothing, shoes and jewelry. Particularly, the colors, shapes, patterns, textures. In fact, accessories like shoes, clutch and jewelry play a vital role too.

For instance, if you are wearing silver/ gold/ copper tone jewelry, match this with the metallic accents in your fascinator. Or if there are bold patterns and textures in your clothing, you would like to keep the fascinator simple. Take note if your outfit is simple you can go for a bold fascinator in bright colors, unusual shapes or extraordinary trimming.

Also, it is always nice to match the materials of the fascinator to the season. Consequently, felt and wool fabrics for the cold and lighter materials like parisisal and silk for summer. Subsequently, fascinators can also help to reflect the fashion era and style of the outfit. For example, art Deco, flapper style, 50s, minimalist, Hollywood Glamour, etc.

Colors and Side

Eventually, many people try to match the color of the clothing to the color of the fascinator. However, this isn’t advisable in every situation. The suggestion is to try colors that would complement and not coordinate. In many cases it is the color of the shoes or the clutch that helps to make the final decision.

Also, keep in mind to match bright colors in your clothing with a fascinator in bright colors. Pastel colored pieces will compliment outfit in softer, neutral shades. Meanwhile, try to match the shade of white in your clothing and in the fascinator.

Sometimes, it is worth to note if the fascinator was made for the right, left or any side of the head. There are some that are worn on any side of the head but mostly there are others that were made for either on the right or left side. Interestingly, bridal fascinators are usually made for the left side as the bride walks along the aisle on the left to the groom.

Face Shape

Similarly, like clothing, choose headwear that will underline your unique, flattering facial features. For instance, an oval-shaped face can wear almost every fascinator. While, people with a round face need to choose fascinators that elongate their face. Take help of long lines and asymmetrical brims that slope away from the forehead.

Further, people with a long face can balance by finding a fascinator that can hide their forehead. The classical bell-shaped will be a great choice. Whereas, with a heart-shaped face, you look lovely in all fascinators. If you have a short, square face, try on hats that soften your straight jawline.

If you feel like it, go for it! Nothing suits you more than self-confidence! Nevertheless, if you still have doubts, don’t worry! We got you covered! We will make the process of choosing a fascinator easier for you. Reserve a fitting session with us!