What is a Fascinator?

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

Any number of things can be included in a fascinator, which is typically 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 beading, among other things. In some cases, a fascinator even teeters on the line of hatdom, 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 an excellent resource. Fascinators can be used to draw attention to unique or complex hairstyles, to complement fine formal wear, and to dress up a more casual look. In the modern day, women have fewer causes to don a fascinator: they tend to show 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 attached, for women who like to wear modest veils while in mourning. Radical and festive fascinators can call attention to someone's head at a party, with trailing feathers, beading, and other ornaments, and fascinators made with fresh flowers can bedeck the heads of members of a wedding party. At formal events where fascinators are common, like the Ascot Races in England, women's fascinators may vie for attention, with extremely ornate styles being quite common.

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