If you're off to Ascot in the next few days, entry is virtually forbidden without a fascinator, and you'll be wanting something stylish and genteel to wear under your arm, too. Think of it as a wedding where you're actually encouraged to upstage the bride.
Fortunately, fascinators are no longer minority-appeal items, and you can get plenty of hairpieces on the high street that will make you look the part. Pictured above is a red sinemay roses decoration, costing £20 from Accessorize. We also love their floral 'Belize' printed clutch bag, which is £28. Summery and stylish, you'll want to carry it with you long after the Ascot horses have trotted away.
If you'd like to wear something a bit more special with your Ascot frock, there are plenty of handmade one-offs to choose from, and it's well worth scouring independent boutiques and your favourite craft sellers. We love Jardin de Fleur, who's made some show-stopping pieces that would be perfect for the races. Check out her colourful floral fascinator (£48) and marvelous Guinea Disk Hat (£72) for some truly original millinery.
