EpsomDownsRacecourse via Twitter
The Derby at Epsom is one of the leading flat meetings in horse racing in the UK. Each year the leading three-year-olds battle it out around the Downs in Surrey to determine the best middle-distance horse in Europe.
The 2016 Derby was won by Harzand who prevailed for Irish trainer Dermot Weld and was ridden by Pat Smullen. The pair got up late to deny the well-backed favourite US Army Ranger. If you are planning to have a bet on the race before the meeting, then you may want to have a look at the best free bet offers which can be found for new and existing customers on comparison sites such as The Winners Enclosure, who also publish betting guides for the big meetings to help you make a profit.
As much as the Derby is about the leading horses in Europe taking centre stage, fashion at the meeting is also very important, particularly if you are lucky enough to be attending in the Queen’s Stand or in one of the hospitality areas at the course.
Here are our best fashion tips for this year’s Derby for the Queen’s Stand through to the Grandstand Enclosure.
Queen’s Stand
The dress code in the Queen’s Stand is much stricter than any other area of the racecourse. For men, you have to wear a jacket, collared shirt and tie – otherwise, you won’t be able to access the stand. The best advice for men would be to go for a smart three-piece suit. You can hire one from a tailor who will also recommend a hat which will match your suit. This will ensure you are dressed to impress, while if you are a regular at the racecourse and like to attend meetings like Royal Ascot, where the dress code is also strict, and Glorious Goodwood, you could invest in your own hat and suit. This would prove a better investment in the long run.
Women must have a fascinator or hat with their dress or outfit. Before choosing what to wear, always check the weather forecast. Although it is June, you cannot just assume you are going to be lucky enough to get glorious weather. If it is cold, you have to wrap up otherwise you will not enjoy your day.
Hospitality Area
The majority of the hospitality areas at Epsom are indoor, therefore you don’t need to worry too much about the weather. If it is cold, you can take a smart jacket with you for when you are outside during the day.
Classic Hospitality via Twitter
Unlike at the Queen’s Stand, a tie for men is not compulsory here. However, it is still encouraged. You do, though, have to wear a jacket and a collared shirt. Women are also asked to wear a hat or fascinator, but again you will be permitted without one. The best advice is to treat the hospitality areas like the Queen’s Stand and go all out. You don’t want to be that person who is the only one underdressed. Men should wear their smartest suit, while women ought to relish the opportunity to show off one of their best dresses. Elegant fascinators and hats are also very common here.
Grandstand Enclosure
The Grandstand Enclosure is not as strict as the Queen’s Stand and the hospitality areas therefore if you don’t want to worry too much about what you need to wear, this is probably the best place to book at Epsom. There are some rules though in that sportswear is not permitted. You can go smart casual as long as you wear black shoes.
If you are planning a trip to Epsom this year or any other major horse racing meeting, enjoy your day out and don’t be afraid to go all out and look to be one of the best dressed at the racecourse.
