3 simple ways to style your hair with a fascinator

Brought to you by Target Australia

Did you know that Melbourne Cup Day and the Hairdressers Picnic Day fall on the same day each year? Yes, that's right. The first Tuesday in November is possibly the one day a year when you might want your hair styled by a professional, and your hairdresser is having the day off. Most likely they'll be standing right next to you in the marquee. A fascinator is a must on race day, and styling your hair can be a little tricky when left to your own devices. Never fear, I have three easy ways for you to style your own hair, that will literally take you a matter of minutes!

Style 1: Straight and sleek
The simplest way to style your hair, is to wear it out. This one may sound obvious, but for a girl who wears her hair in a messy mum bun every day...this one is a challenge. Start by straightening your long locks for a sleek style, adding a little smoothing serum to keep your hair looking glossy and in great condition.

Resist the temptation to use your fascinator as a traditional headband...tuck a little hair behind your ear and fix your fascinator in place. Experiment with your fascinator to see which side it looks best on. For me, this pretty teal number looked a lot better positioned on the same side as the bulk of my hair. You may wish to add a small brush or comb to your clutch purse, to maintain your hairstyle throughout the day.

Style 2: Rock the side pony
Once again, start by straightening your hair. Add a little side part, then sweep the bulk of your hair to the same side your fascinator sits one. Tie your hair in a pony tail using a clear hairband so that it doesn't distract from your gorgeous headpiece.

With your hair now swept to the side, your accessories will make even more of an impact. Choose a simple pair of blinged up stud earrings for a classic look. A large pair of earrings, and large fascinator, will compete with each other and you'll end up looking over-accessorised. Target has a great selection of stud earrings in store...head on in and select a pair to suit your outfit.

Style 3. The donut bun
A donut bun always looks fantastic, and you'd be surprised at how easy they are to use! Instead of adding your bun to the top or back of your head; think low and to the side. The beauty of a donut bun is that all of the pins fix into the wading, not into your scalp...no more upstyle hair headaches! This look is a progression from styles 1 and 2 above...

The donut bun works best with straight hair, so that you end up with a sleek finish. To start, straighten your hair, then tie your hair into a pony tail. Thread your hair through the centre of your donut bun, and brush your hair across the top of the donut bun so that it completely covers the surface. Pop a clear hairband over the top to fix your hair in place, and to create the bun shape. Lastly, pin your excess hair underneath using bobby pins. Give your bun a good spritz of hairspray, and pop on your fascinator to finish. That's it! Two minutes and you're out the door.

Donut buns come in a variety of colours and sizes. Choose one whose wadding is similar to your own hair colour. This way if you miss a spot, it will be camouflaged. The size will depend on how much hair you have, and how big you want the finished bun to look. Experiment and see what looks best on you!

About my outfit...
This year for race day, I have chosen a gorgeous black lace fit and flare dress with purple lining from Target's Moda collection. This dress is so comfortable, and the drape of the fabric is very forgiving for a plus sized woman. I considered how long I'll be on my feet on race day, and selected a pair of black patent Maley wedge court shoes for a little height, and extra comfort. There'll be no sinking into the turf for me!

Don't be afraid to add a pop of colour to your outfit...
You don't always have to match black with black. Target's teal and nude clutch with black zipper and tassle detail, was the jumping off point for my accessories. This clutch has a long strap tucked inside, so it can be worn across the body if needed...perfect for the end of the day when you're getting a little tired. Target has a huge range of fascinators to choose from in store, and this teal floral shaped fascinator with feather detail coordinated beautifully with the clutch purse. My overall look is pretty, feminine, easy to wear...and affordable, all thanks to Target.

Do you dress up for Race Day? How do you prefer to wear your hair with a fascinator?

For more ideas on what to wear for the Spring racing season, check out these five looks from Target!

Note:

• Photos taken by my sister at the Amora Hotel, Sydney...thanks Beth!
• Necklace from my own collection.