So you’ve finally found the fascinator of your dreams. That’s exciting! The next step, of course, is to wear it. But how do you do that? While the simple answer is: place it on your head and go, it may require more steps than that.

You’ve got your outfit — headwear included — ready. Now’s the time to think of your beauty look. The truth is, all the hard work you put into looking for your outfit from head to toe will be for nothing if you pair your ensemble with disheveled hair or mismatched makeup.. That’s just how fashion and beauty works. 

Perhaps you bought your fascinator with the intention of wearing it with your signature hair-do. That’s awesome! But if you went with the outfit first, you’re gonna need inspiration on how best to wear your new headwear piece. Here are tried-and-tested hairstyles for different fascinators. 

P.S. If you’re still on the hunt but curious which would work best with your signature hairstyle, here’s our ultimate guide to fascinators. 

Low bun or side bun

It doesn’t get any more classic than this. Whether you have long or medium-length hair, this style will suit you just right. The low bun has been a go-to hairstyle for many a racegoer. It’s just perfect for getting your hair away from your face to not only keep you from getting distracted but also to let your fascinator shine. 

Most would go for a classic low bun while others, especially those who participate in fashion competitions, choose something a little bigger and more elaborate with their bun. 

Depending on the style of fascinator you’ll wear, you could also opt for a side bun. This style goes well with tilted styles, so it gives your overall look much-needed balance.

High ponytail

This one’s a classic too, though not as popular as the low bun or the side bun. It’s clean, sleek and chic. You also have the option to go straight or curly with the tail of your hairstyle — either looks gorgeous. A bun at the top of your head a la ballerina would look great too! A side part, a full slick back or a middle part are all great for the look, depending on the fascinator style you’re wearing. This style also opens up an opportunity to accessorise some more through earrings.

Loose waves

Not a fan of putting your hair up? Don’t let a fascinator or a special occasion leave you feeling pressured to wear something you’re not used to. Loose waves go nicely with a headwear piece! In some cases, this style looks better with a fascinator too. For instance, a headwear that’s a bit heavy on embellishment on one side or something that’s tall. The loose waves will balance out the seemingly busy-ness of the fascinator and make the look appear more put-together.   

Half up-do hairstyle

You get the best of both worlds with this style. It’s the perfect mix of laid-back and polished. You get to be creative with both parts of the ‘do too. You can opt for a min-bun for the up-do as well as braids. Meanwhile, for the lower part of the style, you can keep your hair how you usually wear it or curl or straighten depending on the look you’re going for. 

READ NEXT: 15 timeless and chic half-up half-down wedding hairstyles

The classic bob or pixie

This one’s for our short-haired friends! There’s something so chic about a veiled fascinator and a bob — or a pixie. It looks so cosmopolitan but also has a uniquely vintage vibe. It works even for headwear that doesn’t have veils, though, so don’t think you’d need to buy one if that’s not your style. A more traditional look like something of a pillbox would look great with this hairstyle too. 

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