The Royal Wedding may have introduced the majority of us to fascinators, which are basically small hats, but it's the DC woman behind Ciao Nina who's making these decorative headpieces commonplace stateside. In fact, her work as even graced the set of Gossip Girl (that's Nina's work on the left!).

Yes, our hometown girl Nina O'Neil knows a thing or two about looking posh without looking stodgy. And while looking posh may not seem like a typical DC priority (your boss is likely less fashion-forward than Kate Middleton), we're the kind of people who think standing out is outstanding. But in case you're not ready to bust a fascinator out yet on the job, check out these three foreseeable situations where you can easily pop one on:

The Theater
Whether it's the experimental fair at Woolly, the more refined work of the Shakespeare Theatre or the breathtaking beauty that is Synetic, trading in whatever reality TV show airs this fall for a night of IRL performance art, is a good idea. It's also a good reason to trade in your daytime business casual for an eye-popping dress with the appropriate headgear.

Restaurant Week
If you're a fan of food, then you probably already know next week is the best week of them all, Restaurant Week. Finally, we can try all the restaurants that are often too fancy for our everyday bank accounts, like Mintwood Place and Sushi Taro. A Ciao Nina headband will keep your hair out of your face while you eat in style.

Tweed Ride
Although it's still some months away, it's never too early to start planning your outfit for this year's Tweed Ride, brought to you by Dandies and Quaintrelles. Stave off helmet hair by having a fascinator at the ready.

Shop Ciao Nina's collection of head-turning head toppers and more by clicking to our Shoppe store.