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Kentucky Derby hat: Tara Lipinksi's 5-step DIY fascinator

Have your Kentucky Derby outfit ready? If not, mix up a few mint juleps and get cracking on this fun Kentucky Derby hat tutorial.
/ Source: TODAY

As a former host, with co-anchor and partner-in-crime Johnny Weir, Tara Lipinski knows a thing or two about the time-honored tradition — especially the fact that a fancy Kentucky Derby hat or fascinator (a type of decorative headwear held in place by a band or clip) is an absolute must.

Kentucky Derby hat
Tara Lipinski's hatsGetty Images

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And Lipinski's favorite part of this annual tradition? The fact that you can celebrate and enjoy the festivities whether or not you're heading down to Louisville, she told TODAY. So, gather a group of friends, mix up a few mint juleps and get cracking on this fun, DIY fascinator from Lipinski and her stylist Kate Pankoke.

What you'll need:

  • A headband or hairclip base
  • Embellishments like flowers, feathers or (in this case) gold butterflies
  • Spool of wire
  • Hot glue gun
  • Wire cutters
  • Scissors
  • Little detail scissors (to cut any loose threads or imperfections at the end)

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What you'll do:

Step 1: Cut the wire to a length slightly larger than the headband.

Step 2: Wrap the wire around the base to create your desired shape. You may want to add additional pieces of wire to create more lift. Up to you!

Pro tip! Leave the sharp pointy end on the outside so it's not uncomfortable when you wear it.

Step 3: Use the hot glue gun to secure the wire in place.

Step 4: Layout the embellishments beforehand to ensure you like the design.

Step 5: And glue!

The magic of the hot glue gun is that it dries instantly, so wear your new fascinator with pride and cheer on your favorite contender. Happy Derby-ing!

For more of Tara's favorite things, visit her lifestyle blog Essentially Tara.

This post was originally published on April 30, 2015.