If you just read the above and have absolutely no idea what fascinators are, then allow me to give a brief overview. Fascinators are a type of headpiece that are most commonly used in the place of a hat, and which come in styles that use lace, ribbons, flowers, and all manner of stunning designs to create a unique look that perfectly matches the style of the woman who is wearing it. Some fascinators are actually made to look as though they are small hats, but the more common style is that of a smaller piece that isn’t quite as overbearing as a hat.

Let’s face it, not every woman is at ease with wearing a hat, and shorter haired women in particular seem to revel in fascinators as they lend a definite bit of pizzazz to a shorter do. Brides also tend to opt for fascinators, especially since they can be designed in a way that is unique and is perfectly suited to the dress that they choose to wear. On those types of occasions it’s not uncommon for the fascinator to incorporate some sort of veil so that it bears the traditional look that one expects to see from a bride wearing a headpiece.

Other places where fascinators have become very much in vogue is at large horse races such as Ascot and The Kentucky Derby. Those are both events where hats are very much expected to be worn, but fascinators have been seen to gain popularity at those events. Unfortunately stricter dress code rules have been implemented at Ascot and ladies are required to wear hats instead of fascinators. The feeling is that the fascinator has made a real style comeback because they are now very popular with the younger members of the Royal Family. Kate Middleton is often seen sporting a fascinator, and what woman doesn’t want to feel like a princess, even if it is for only one day.

Wearing a fascinator is one way to really shine without having to go completely overboard, and the fact that they are often considerably less than the cost of a new hat makes them even more appealing. There is even now a booming online market where artists and designers are creating their own fascinators for the buying public, with many even custom made to suit a particular event and even to match your outfit. If you are one of those ladies who want to exhibit some flair, but who doesn’t like the feel of hats, then you really need to take a look at fascinators to help you make that bold statement.

Nina Young designs and makes fascinators. To see a delightful selection of her designs please visit her boutique loveburlesque.com