Creating A Wedding Fascinator: A Step-By-Step Guide

A fascinator is a decorative headpiece typically worn at formal occasions such as weddings. They come in various sizes and colours, ranging from small and understated designs to larger, more extravagant pieces. Making your own fascinator is not as hard as you might think and is relatively straightforward. With the right fascinator parts and a bit of creative flair, you can make a headpiece to rival some of the most elaborate at Royal Ascot.

Choosing the right fascinator

Style of the Wedding

Firstly, consider the type of wedding you will be attending. If it is a formal, traditional wedding, opt for a classic fascinator shape. If the wedding is more intimate and casual, you can be more creative and choose a unique style that reflects your personality.

Your Role at the Wedding

If you are the mother of the bride or groom, you may want to choose a larger, more statement fascinator. Just ensure that it does not obscure the bride's face!

Colour Scheme and Personal Taste

Think about the colour scheme of your wedding outfit and the wedding's overall theme. You can either match your fascinator to your outfit or choose a contrasting colour to make a bold statement. If you're wearing a subtle or monochrome outfit, a colourful fascinator can add a fun pop of colour. Conversely, if your outfit is already vibrant, you might want to choose a more subdued fascinator.

Size of the Fascinator

Consider your hairstyle when choosing the size of your fascinator. If you plan to wear your hair up and sleek, a small fascinator will complement this style. For a loose updo, opt for a medium-sized fascinator. If you want to wear your hair down with some volume or have thinning hair, a larger fascinator will be more flattering.

Material and Season

Choose a material that is appropriate for the season. For a summer wedding, select a lightweight and breathable material to stay cool. For winter weddings, opt for warmer materials such as wool or felt. You can also consider the latest fashion trends to inspire your choice of material and colour.

Face Shape and Features

To flatter your face shape, choose a fascinator that adds height if you have a round face. If you have a thin face, a full and round fascinator, like a disc shape, can add width and balance to your look.

Hair Colour

When selecting a fascinator colour, consider your hair colour. Redheads can opt for deep green, teal, purple, or navy blue hues. Blondes can choose colours like scarlet red, cobalt blue, or light pink. Brunettes can rock bright shades like hot pink, red, or yellow. For those with grey hair, warmer tones like maroon and dark blue are flattering.

Comfort and Security

Lastly, ensure that your fascinator is comfortable and secure. You don't want to spend the whole day worrying about it falling off! Opt for a style that fits well and feels good so you can relax and enjoy the wedding celebrations.

Base disc and fabric

The base disc is a crucial part of the fascinator as it acts as the foundation for the rest of the headpiece. You can either buy one or make your own. If you want to make your own, start by cutting out a circle of felt that is around 3 to 5 inches in diameter. You can adjust the size of the circle according to your preference—a smaller base for a dainty fascinator and a larger base for a more dramatic look.

After cutting out the base disc, you can cover it with one or more layers of mesh or tulle. This will add volume and hide the felt base. Sew the mesh or tulle onto the base disc using a needle and thread that matches the colour of the fabric. You can also cut out the mesh or tulle in the same size as the base disc or cut out larger pieces and drape them over.

Another option for the base disc is to use lace. Cut out the desired pattern from a piece of lace using small embroidery scissors. Then, apply a fabric stiffener to the lace according to the package instructions. Once the stiffener is dry, iron the lace to further enhance the stiffness. This will give your fascinator a romantic and vintage look.

Feathers, flowers, and other decorations

Flowers, either silk or fabric, can be used as a centerpiece or as an accent. You can cut fabric flowers from lace, or you can buy silk flowers from a craft store. If you go with silk flowers, cut the stems so that the bottom of the flower is flat, then glue it onto your fascinator. You can also add smaller flowers or silk leaves to create a flowery fascinator.

Other decorations you can add include beads, sequins, paste-gems, or buttons. Glue these on with hot glue, making sure to hold them in place for about 10 to 15 seconds. You can also add fringe to your fascinator to hide the edges of the felt base. Choose a fringe colour that complements the other colours in your fascinator design.

Embellishments

Feathers

Feathers are a popular choice for fascinators as they add a soft and elegant touch. You can choose feathers in various colours and sizes to create the desired effect. For example, you could use peacock feathers with a green felt base or pink-dyed feathers with a pink felt circle. If you want to make the feathers the focal point, you can cover the entire felt base with them. Alternatively, use them more sparingly as an accent, perhaps in a spray or bundle, to add height and texture to your headpiece.

Flowers

Silk flowers are readily available in craft stores and can make a bold statement. Choose a flower in a colour and style that complements the other elements of your fascinator. You can cut off the stem and attach the flower to your fascinator with hot glue. Position it in the centre or off to one side. You can also add smaller flowers or silk leaves to create a more intricate design.

Beads, Sequins, and Gems

Beads, sequins, and paste-gems are perfect for adding a touch of sparkle to your fascinator. You can use a single large piece as a focal point or scatter smaller pieces across your headpiece for a more subtle effect. Use hot glue to attach them securely, holding each piece in place for about 10 to 15 seconds.

Ribbon

Ribbon can be used to create loops and waves, adding texture and dimension to your fascinator. You can use ribbon with or without wire; the wired variety will give you more options for creating a 3D effect. Once you've created the desired shape, use hot glue to attach the ribbon to your fascinator base.

Lace and Beading

Lace can be used to create a romantic, vintage-inspired fascinator. Choose a bold pattern, such as guipure or corded lace, and cut out the desired shape. Apply fabric stiffener to the lace, let it dry, and then iron it to further stiffen the fabric. Arrange the lace on your headband, securing it with pins, and then sew it in place with small, invisible stitches. Add some small bugle beads and stitch them in place for a touch of sparkle.

The options for embellishments are endless, and you can also use fringe, fringe trim, mesh, tulle, or buttons. Let your creativity flow, and don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of colours, textures, and materials.

Securing the fascinator

Choose the Right Securing Method for your Fascinator:

• Headband: This is a popular choice for larger fascinators as it provides stability. Slide the headband into your hair so that it sits comfortably and securely. Position the most decorative part of the fascinator slightly off-centre, typically on the front right side of your head. Try to hide most of the headband under your hair, and match its colour to the rest of the headpiece for a seamless look.
• Hair Comb: Insert the comb into your hair in your preferred place, ensuring it grips firmly. For a secure grip, start with the comb further back in your hair and slide it forward. This works well with various hairstyles, including hair that is put up, left down, or styled in a half-updo.
• Elastic: Elastic is a subtle yet secure option for securing your fascinator. Wear the elastic behind your ears and around the nape of your neck to conceal it. Match the colour of the elastic to your hair colour for a neater appearance.
• Hair Clip: This is typically used for smaller fascinators, such as delicate silk flowers.

Prepare your Hair:

Wash your hair the day before to ensure it has the right amount of grip. Backcombing your hair can also add volume and help the fascinator stay in place. Take the section of hair you'll be using to secure the fascinator and backcomb towards the centre of your head.

Final Tips:

• Spray your hair with hairspray for extra hold.
• If you wear glasses, avoid using a headband as it may not fit comfortably behind your ears. Elastic or a hair comb may be more suitable.
• For a comfortable and secure fit, choose a headband with texture on the underside.

Frequently asked questions