You learn something new every day. That’s what happened to me the other day when a woman asked me to design a fascinator for a Mardi Gras Ball. It’s a pretty big affair in the South, and if you ever have a chance to attend the Rex Ball in New Orleans, you’ll want to go. My client wanted something elegantly fun, glamorously appropriate, and in keeping with the traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green and gold. I wasn’t quite sure where to start.
Sure, I’ve created elegantly fun fascinators, perfect for a glamorous ball, but I think the Mardi Gras colors were throwing me off. While I’ve been to my share of white tie soirées, I’ve never attended the Rex Ball. The closest I’ve been is the Mardi Gras Museum in Mobile Alabama. So I did the next best thing, and went online. The jester hats weren’t really doing anything for me. Nor were the Cat in the Hat chapeaux spurring any creative juices. It was a ball not a parade. Fortunately, inspiration struck after a few days. The woman was wearing a black ball gown so that’s were I started. Black duchess satin formed the base of the headpiece. The shape was crescent in nature to nest comfortably at the back of the head, as an accent for an updo hair style. A delicate gold chain helped break up the severity of the satin fabric. Black ostrich feathers added an element of fun. Curved and shaped to move with the wearer, but not overwhelm. Then there was the element of glamour. Something that could add a level of excitement and change the ordinary into the realm of extraordinary. Hand beading was just what was needed. Glass bugle beads, gold pearls and Swarovski crystals were added one by one.
Suddenly, it came together and made me proud. Off it went, just in time for the ball.
