When I think of the spring races, I think fascinators. When else can you get away with a large swirl of colours and material sitting innocently in your hair? They’re the best part of Fashions on the Field and, in my opinion, the best part of the entire spring carnival. But fascinators are notoriously tricky when it comes to styling your locks, so take caution and make sure to choose a style that will work well with your signature hair accessory.
FASCINATOR FRIENDLY HAIRSTYLE #1: PRETTY PONY
Best for:
Fascinators that are built on a headband.
Pull it off:
This style is perfect for those with layered hair. Start by placing your fascinator or a plain headband on your head. Tie back all the hair that falls behind the headband, leaving the shorter layers at the front framing your face. Use a volumising spray or powder to add bounce to your ponytail.
FASCINATOR FRIENDLY HAIRSTYLE #2: SIDE BUN
Best for:
Large statement fascinators that clip or attach straight to the hair.
Pull it off:
Part your hair so that majority of it is placed on the side where your fascinator will sit (the more hair it has to hang onto the better). Then smooth the hair back tightly, placing your bun towards the side that best suits where you fascinator will sit. You can use a hair donut for a perfectly circular bun, or freestyle for a messy version. Secure with bobby pins.
FASCINATOR FRIENDLY HAIRSTYLE #3: LOOSE & WAVY
Best for:
Protruding fascinators that steal all the attention.
Pull it off:
Wash your hair the night before and add a texturising spray to towel dried hair. Scrunch up your damp hair and let it dry naturally. In the morning, touch up the waves with a curling iron and set with hairspray.
Top tip:
If it’s a hot or humid day, make sure you keep on hand extra bobby pins, volumising spray or hairspray to keep your ‘do fresh and in place. If sweating off your make-up is also a worry, don’t stress too much because Clinique will be at the races offering mini-touch ups for girls, as well as SPF and aftershave for the boys.
Are you heading to the races this spring? What’s your favourite fascinator hairstyle?