Creating A Wedding Fascinator: Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding fascinators are a chic alternative to traditional veils, often incorporating feathers, crystals, flowers, and pearls. They can be attached to the hair with a clip, headband, or comb, and paired with a birdcage veil for a more dramatic look. Fascinators are typically chosen as statement pieces for weddings, derbies, and other special events.

Choosing a base: veil, headband, or clip

When making a wedding fascinator, choosing the right base is essential. Here are some options to consider:

Veil

A veil is a traditional choice for bridal fascinators and can add a touch of elegance and drama to your look. If you opt for a veil, consider the length and style that will best complement your fascinator design and overall wedding ensemble. Veils can be attached to a comb, headband, or clip for secure placement.

Headband

A headband is a popular choice for fascinators as it provides a stable base and is easy to wear. It can be comfortably secured to your head, ensuring that your fascinator stays in place throughout the day. Headbands also come in various styles, from simple bands to more ornate designs adorned with pearls, feathers, or flowers.

Clip

A clip is a versatile option that can be attached to your hair or a headpiece. It offers flexibility in positioning your fascinator and can be easily adjusted to suit your preferred style. Clips can be embellished with decorative elements such as rhinestones, pearls, or beads to enhance the overall design of your fascinator.

When choosing the base for your wedding fascinator, consider factors such as comfort, security, and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. The base should complement the design elements of your fascinator and be comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Adding decorations: feathers, flowers, beads, or pearls

Adding decorations to your fascinator can elevate its elegance and make it stand out. Feathers, flowers, beads, and pearls are all popular choices for wedding fascinator embellishments. Here are some detailed instructions and ideas to help you add these decorations to your wedding fascinator:

Feathers

Feathers are a classic choice for adding texture and a touch of luxury to your fascinator. You can choose from a variety of feather types, such as peacock feathers or ostrich plumes, in different colours to match your wedding theme. Soft feathers can be used to create a delicate and romantic look, while more structured feathers can give a bolder and more dramatic effect. Feathers can be attached to a headband, comb, or clip base for a secure fit. When working with feathers, be careful as they can be delicate, and it's essential to handle them with care to avoid damaging them.

Flowers

Flowers add a beautiful, natural touch to your wedding fascinator. You can choose from a wide range of silk or fabric flowers in various colours, sizes, and styles. Small flowers can be attached to a headband or comb, while larger flowers can be used as a focal point, with a clip or headband securing them in place. If you're using fresh flowers, be sure to choose varieties that will last throughout the day, such as orchids, roses, or lilies. Fresh flowers should be carefully wired and taped to ensure they stay in place.

Beads and Pearls

Beads and pearls add a touch of sparkle and glamour to your fascinator. You can sew or glue individual beads or pearls onto the base of your fascinator or create a pattern or design. For a more subtle effect, you can use a string of small beads or pearls as an accent, wrapping it around the base or headband. Beads and pearls come in various sizes, shapes, and colours, allowing you to create a unique and personalized design.

When adding decorations to your wedding fascinator, it's important to consider the overall balance and weight of the piece. Ensure that the decorations are securely attached, especially if you're using heavier materials like large pearls or beads. Experiment with different placements and combinations of feathers, flowers, beads, and pearls to create a fascinator that complements your wedding outfit and reflects your personal style.

Incorporating heirlooms: like a family brooch

Fascinators are a great way to express your personal style and can be customised to incorporate family heirlooms, such as a grandmother's brooch. Here is a step-by-step guide to making a wedding fascinator with a family brooch:

Materials:

• A fascinator base with a headband slot
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• Crinoline or netting
• Ribbons or feathers for additional decoration (optional)
• A wig head for easy assembly (optional)
• A family brooch

Steps:

Placement:

Decide which side of the head you want to wear the fascinator on. If your fascinator base has a slot for a headband, add a small amount of glue under the headband in the slot to secure it.

Stability:

If you have a wig head, place the base on it for easier handling.

Add the Main Decoration:

Prepare your chosen decorations. If you are using flowers, cut the stems close to the flower, ensuring it stays intact. Reinforce the cut end with hot glue to prevent petals from falling off.

Attach your chosen decorations to the fascinator base using hot glue. If you are using flowers, add a generous amount of glue to the back of the flower and press it onto the base in your chosen location. Use a cooling spray to set the glue faster.

Add Netting/Crinoline:

Measure about a yard of crinoline. If you prefer a ruffled effect, pull on the gathering thread. For a simpler look, remove the thread, fold the crinoline into loops, and secure with covered wire. Glue this arrangement behind your main decoration, covering any visible parts of the base.

Add Additional Decorations:

Tuck feathers or loops of ribbon into the spaces around your main decoration and netting. Use hot glue to secure them in place. Experiment with different textures and colours to make your fascinator unique.

Check for Gaps:

Ensure there are no visible parts of the base showing. Add more decorations as needed to cover any gaps.

Adjust and Trim:

Once all the elements are attached, adjust the decorations to ensure a balanced and attractive design. Trim any excess materials if necessary.

Attaching the Brooch:

There are several ways to attach the brooch to your fascinator, depending on its design:

• If the brooch has a pin mechanism, simply pin it directly into the fascinator base.
• If the brooch has a clip-on mechanism, open the clip and push it straight into the base.
• If the brooch has neither a pin nor a clip, use hot glue to attach it to the base.

Your wedding fascinator with a family brooch is now complete! This project is a fun way to incorporate a family heirloom into your wedding day and will result in a unique and meaningful accessory.

Buying a fascinator: online or in-store

When it comes to buying a fascinator, you have the option of shopping online or in-store. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to consider your needs and preferences before making a decision.

Online Shopping:

Online shopping has become a popular choice for many, especially with the rise of e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Etsy. Here are some benefits of buying a fascinator online:

• Convenience: You can browse through numerous options from the comfort of your home and avoid physical store limitations, such as operating hours or geographical distance.
• Variety: Online stores often offer a wider range of products, including unique handcrafted pieces or vintage items, allowing you to find more specialised or niche designs.
• Comparisons: It's easy to compare prices, styles, and reviews from different sellers or platforms, helping you make a more informed decision.
• Personalisation: Some online sellers offer customisation options or made-to-order items, ensuring your fascinator is truly one-of-a-kind.
• Delivery: Many online stores provide free shipping, and some even offer expedited delivery options if you need your fascinator in a hurry.

However, there are also a few potential drawbacks to consider:

• Sizing: Determining the correct size or fit for a fascinator can be challenging when purchasing online.
• Quality: It can be difficult to assess the true quality of a product from online images and descriptions alone.
• Returns: While many online stores offer return policies, the process of returning or exchanging an item can sometimes be more complicated than with in-store purchases.

In-Store Shopping:

On the other hand, buying a fascinator from a physical store offers these advantages:

• Try Before You Buy: You have the opportunity to try on different fascinators, ensuring the perfect fit and allowing you to see how it looks and feels in person before committing to a purchase.
• Immediate Gratification: In-store shopping means you can take your purchase home with you right away, avoiding potential delivery wait times.
• Personal Assistance: Sales assistants can provide tailored advice and guidance, helping you find the best fascinator for your needs and style.
• Returns: Returning or exchanging an item in-store may be more straightforward, as you can handle the process directly with the retailer.

However, there are also a few potential disadvantages to consider when buying in-store:

• Limited Options: Physical stores may have a smaller selection of fascinators compared to online retailers, limiting your choices.
• Accessibility: You are restricted by the operating hours and geographical location of the store, which may not always be convenient.
• Price Comparison: It can be more challenging to compare prices between different stores, although many now offer price-matching policies.

In conclusion, both online and in-store shopping have their pros and cons. Online shopping offers convenience, variety, and personalisation options, while in-store shopping provides the opportunity to try before you buy, immediate gratification, and personalised assistance. Consider your priorities and preferences to determine which option is best for you when purchasing a fascinator.

Customising a fascinator: colour, size, and shape

When customising a fascinator, you can choose from a variety of colours, sizes, and shapes to create a unique and elegant look.

Colour

The colour of your fascinator can be chosen to match or complement your wedding outfit. Many fascinators come in a range of colours, such as the Emelia Rose™ fascinator, which is available in 9 colours, or the Victoria™ fascinator, which offers 14 colour options. You can also opt for a classic colour like black, white, or navy, or go for something bolder like fuchsia, orange, or turquoise.

Size

Fascinators come in various sizes, from small and delicate headbands to larger, statement pieces. For example, the "Rosalie" fascinator is described as a "small Derby Hat," while the "Classic Bow Fascinator" is a more substantial piece. The size you choose will depend on your personal preference and the overall look you want to achieve.

Shape

Fascinators can be found in a multitude of shapes, including discs, bows, flowers, and feathers. Some popular options include the "Asymmetric Disc Headband Fascinator," the "Asymmetric Bow Headband Fascinator," and the "Feather Detail Fascinator." You can also find fascinators in unique shapes like seahorses or horseshoes. Additionally, you can add veils, headbands, or combs to customise the shape and style of your fascinator further.

Frequently asked questions