The Fascinator: Less is More

“I'm not British, but I can certainly don a fascinator for the royal visit.” Nellie looked in the mirror. “There is no way that I can change my face, though.” 

She was sixteen and much to her dismay, still pleasantly plump. Her waist length, dark hair and pudgy cheeks were just like they had been when she was a baby. Everyone pinched her cheeks as a child. Now, she had rosy cheeks that made her look like she was blushing.  

Just then, the doorbell rang. Whoever was at the door was in a hurry and rang again.

“Help,” said Monica, her fifteen-year old friend, a petite, pretty girl who was extremely shy. “Mom says I need a hat to wear when we go to see the royals tomorrow. Everyone has to wear a hat. She offered to lend me one of hers, but they are so old looking. I am not into hats!”

“Me neither. I was just thinking about wearing a fascinator,” replied Nellie, with a smile. “Come in. We will figure something out. “A fascinator looks like a bird’s nest, perched on an angle, on one side of your head and it’s worn towards the front.”

Both girls laughed aloud.

“Fascinators are the rage in Britain. There, the millinery shops are full of them,” replied Nellie. “I have an idea. Let’s create our own fascinators.”

Several minutes later, Monica said, “The web site, “Ooh, La, La Plume” gives the historical background of fascinators and says feathers were the base material for the original fascinators. Jewels and precious stones came along later and miniature ships, stuffed animals, butterflies and flags, too.”

“That is neat. They have engraved shells, cameos and even ostrich feathers,” said Nellie. “They can have artificial flowers, waxed, satin ribbons, tulle and even stuffed birds.”

“I think less would be more, if we make our own fascinators, don’t you?” asked Monica. “Let’s start with a comb or headband, and see what we can create.” 

“Monica, you will look wonderful no matter what you wear.”

“I am not wearing a stuffed bird!”