The word Fascinator has been used to describe a formal headpiece worn in place of hats since the 1990s; it often consists of a sizable ornate design fastened to a band or clip.
It serves no practical use, unlike a hat; it gives little to no weather protection and just serves as adornment. Sometimes referred to as a hatinator, this intermediate variant has a larger base to resemble a hat.
The Royals of the United Kingdom appear to be somewhat obsessed with these. There was not a single royal wedding that took place without these useless little accessories. And yet, here we are. Talking about them, writing about them, even secretly trying them on.
What’s the catch? They are tiny pieces of artwork, and can be very creative. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic ones we’ve seen over the years.
1. Princess Beatrice of York
2. Tara Palmer-Tomkinson
3. The Duchess of Cornwall
4. Pippa Middleton
5. Kirsty Gallacher
