Can you Wear a Fascinator on the Left Side of your head?

Are you ready to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your next special occasion outfit? If so, then you might be considering wearing a fascinator. These exquisite headpieces have been become so popular. But here’s the burning question: can you wear a fascinator only on the right hand side or also on the left side of your head? The answer may surprise you. While traditionally worn on the right side, there is no hard and fast rule that dictates where a fascinator should be placed. In this article, I will delve into the reasons behind choosing the right position for a fascinator and explore how you can effortlessly pull off wearing a headpiece. So, if you’re ready to make a statement and turn heads at your next event, keep reading to discover the art of wearing a fascinator on the left or right side of your head.

Before we dive into the world of fascinators and their placement, let’s first understand what exactly a fascinator is. A fascinator is a decorative headpiece that can be worn for various occasions such as weddings, horse races, and garden parties. It is typically made of felt, straw or fabrics, decorated with feathers, flowers, beads, and other embellishments, and is attached to a comb, a headband or a hat elastic. Fascinators are designed to add a touch of glamour and flair to any outfit, instantly elevating your look and making you feel like a true fashionista.

Traditionally, fascinators were worn by women as an alternative to wearing a hat. They were often seen as a symbol of sophistication and were commonly worn to formal events. However, in recent years, fascinators have become more versatile and can be worn for both formal and casual occasions, allowing women to showcase their personal style and creativity.

In the world of fascinators, there have been traditional rules and guidelines when it comes to their placement on the head. Traditionally, fascinators were worn on the right-hand side of the head. This tradition stems from the fact that women used to wear their hair in elaborate updos, and placing the fascinator on the right side ensured that it would be visible from the front. It also allowed the fascinator to complement the overall hairstyle and create a balanced look.

The traditional rule of wearing a fascinator on the right side still holds true for many formal events, such as royal weddings and race meetings. It is considered the more conservative and classic choice, as it follows the traditional etiquette and maintains a sense of uniformity among attendees. However, as fashion evolves, so do the rules, and wearing a fascinator on the left side has become more acceptable and fashionable in recent years.

While the traditional rule of wearing a fascinator on the right side still holds strong, many fashion-forward individuals have embraced the idea of breaking the rules and wearing their fascinators on the left side. This new trend allows for more creativity and personal expression when it comes to styling your fascinator. By placing the fascinator on the left side, you can create a unique and asymmetrical look that is sure to turn heads.

One of the advantages of wearing a fascinator on the left side is that it can help to balance out your overall look. I always recommend wearing a fascinator on that side of the head where the hair parting is. If you have a hairstyle that is more voluminous on one side, wearing the fascinator on the opposite side can create a sense of harmony and add an extra element of interest to your outfit. Additionally, wearing a fascinator on the left side can also draw attention to your face and highlight your best features.

When it comes to fascinators, there is a wide variety of styles to choose from. Whether you prefer a small and delicate fascinator or a large and statement-making piece, there is something for everyone. Each style of fascinator can be worn on either the left or right side, depending on your personal preference and the overall look you want to achieve.

For those who prefer a more classic and traditional look, a small fascinator with feathers, flowers or felt/ straw bows and knots can be the perfect choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking to make a bold statement, a larger so called saucer hat style fascinator with intricate designs and embellishments will be what you are looking for. Either one of these fascinators can be worn on the left or right hand side. 

When it comes to choosing the right fascinator for your outfit, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you want to ensure that the fascinator complements your overall look and doesn’t overpower your outfit. If you’re wearing a dress with a busy pattern or intricate details, opting for a simpler fascinator can help to balance out your look and prevent it from looking too overwhelming.

Additionally, you’ll want to consider the colour of your fascinator and how it will coordinate with your outfit. If you’re wearing a monochromatic outfit, a fascinator in a complementary colour can add a pop of contrast and create visual interest. On the other hand, if you’re wearing a colourful or patterned outfit, a fascinator in a neutral colour can help to tie your look together and create a cohesive ensemble.

If you are looking to purchase a fascinator the can compliment different outfits choose one in a solid, neutral colour like navy blue, royal blue, black, gold, beige, nude, burgundy etc. 

You can read more about how to choose a fascinator or hat in my blog post How to choose a hat or fascinator for your face shape.

When it comes to wearing a fascinator to special occasions, it’s important to follow proper etiquette. While the rules for fascinator placement have become more relaxed in recent years, there are still a few guidelines to keep in mind. If you’re attending a formal event, such as a wedding, you may want to stick to the traditional rule of wearing the fascinator on the right side. This shows respect for tradition and ensures that you’re following the dress code.

However, if you’re attending a more casual or fashion-forward event, such as a race day, a garden party or a cocktail party, you have more freedom to experiment with the placement of your fascinator. Wearing it on the left side can create a more unique and fashion-forward look that is sure to make a statement. Just be sure to consider the overall aesthetic of the event and choose a fascinator that complements your outfit and the occasion.

In conclusion, the question of whether you can wear a fascinator on the left side of your head has a simple answer: yes, you can. While traditionally worn on the right side, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to fascinator placement. Whether you choose to follow tradition or break the rules and wear your fascinator on the left side, the most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable in your choice. So, the next time you’re getting ready for a special occasion, don’t be afraid to experiment with different fascinator styles and placements. After all, fashion is all about self-expression and having fun with your personal style. So go ahead, embrace the art of wearing a fascinator on the left or right side of your head, and make a statement wherever you go.

Hope you enjoyed reading my tips about wearing a fascinator. Subscribe to my newsletter and never miss a new blog post about the beautiful world of hats.

You can find out more about choosing and wearing headpieces in these blog posts:

How to secure a fascinator?

How to secure a pillbox hat?

What hat to wear to a summer wedding

Glam up your Christmas party outfit with these 5 amazing hats and fascinators

How to choose a bridal fascinator or hat