BHLDN Fascinates! Fascinator Hats

I would like to dedicate this blog to Management, for asking all the right questions:

Everyone knows what is happening Friday, April 29th. It is the Royal Wedding; and while we have not been under British rule for quite some time, that does not stop us from being fascinated with our prim cousins. Notably, there is a growing fascination with the Future Princess and her chic, clean style. She is often times found sporting a hat, as is the custom for the country. It appears that her ladylike style is rubbing off on her American cousins. The growing amusement with hats, particularly fascinators, among a younger demographics has become ever apparent.

 

A male colleague was intrigued and raised a question that none of the women in the room could answer: Why is it called a fascinator? We could only describe what one was but could not quite relay the origins of the term. If you know why it is called such then please tell me.  A fascinator is an ornate headband which may contain netting, feathers, bows and other embellishments. The fascinator was generally worn in lieu of a hat and and dates to the 19th and 20th centuries.*

BHLDN has several incredibly beautiful and ostentatious fascinators. Though they are listed as headbands on the website, by definition , I believe they would fit the bill to be considered fascinators. The  Magnolia Frame Headband, by Jane Tran is a big bronze flower. Constructed of nylon, cupro, and metal, the Magnolia Headband is handmade in USA and sales for

$80.00.

 

The Voluminous Silk Headband is a huge bloom of pale pink organza. The headband is also made in the USA by ban.do. It sales for $130.00.

 

Now getting into the wedding-wear. BHLDN offers two pieces that are worthy of a Royal Wedding. The Beauregard Headband is a little steep, but certainly worth it. At $550.00, Riche ostrich feathers and velvet ribbon are adorned atop a straw toque. Handmade in the USA by James Coviello'.

 

The  Velvet Cocktail Hat is also a little steep at $495.00, but it is exquisite!  Rolls of velvet ribbon are trimmed with netting and attached by a metal comb. Also James Coviello, the Velvet Cocktail Hat made in USA.  That's what I am talking about, homegrown.

 

Because I have not received my invitation, I will watch the wedding home, cum chapeau, of course. (Smile!)

 

 

Until tomorrow,

 

Chamele