How do the Queen's hatpins work?

Answer 1

In Victorian times, hatpins were easily used as women typically put their hair up in a bun. Once the hat was placed on the head, the hatpin would go through both the hat and the bun and would securely attach the hat to the hair. Things have changed, however, as women, including the Queen, no longer wear their hair long and put it up. These days, combs are used and the proper use of those with hatpins essentially requires a dresser to get it right. The Queen, along with all other ladies in the royal family, depend on their dressers to ensure the hats stay on. Once their hair is done, a series of combs is attached to the hair and attached to each comb is a tight sponge. The combs are carefully placed to match the circumference of the hat. At least two such combs, sometimes three, are in place then the hat goes on. The hatpins are then inserted and are secured in place to the sponge in the combs for a tight fit. If the wind blows from the front, the hatpin keeps the hat firmly in place as it attached to the comb which is tight to the hair. The same is true for the back. In a particularly windy day, three combs are used. Each hatpin can be identified from a matching piece of fabric twisted around the head of the pin so it blends in to the hat. The head of the hatpin is clearly visible, but the mechanics have been cleverly disguised. A tight fit is always achieved. The Queen's hat is sure not to blow off. Rarely, do you ever see her clutching onto her hat. She knows it's safely on. Taking it off, of course, requires the extra set of hands, but it's worth it. It's a little less than dignified to be chasing your headpiece down a windy road. The physics is quite intriguing but is very simple in the end.