Although the action on the turf tends to command the majority of the headlines, and no surprises considering people’s involvement due to their royal ascot ante post betting, the popular racing event is also synonymous with fashion. This quintessentially British event is always one of the major events on the social calendar for those who value sartorial elegance. A strict dress code is upheld by the venue, but there is still plenty of room for imagination, and there are many ways in which you can ensure that you’ll stand out from the crowd.
Look Radiant at #RoyalAscot @Ascot & follow the dress code in @marybensonldn with @SharperMilliner #fascinator for the #VillageEnclosure Featured in @eclipse_racing magazine #RockItForRacing #RacingFashion https://t.co/Kx2PBffXaH … pic.twitter.com/MYqWCrqRFp
— Racing Fashion (@RacingFashion) June 1, 2019
Look Beyond the Dress
In 2017, Royal Ascot announced that jumpsuits had been officially added to the list of possibilities for racegoers, and although the majority of daytrippers do still tend to opt for a more traditional style, it could be worth thinking outside the box. A playfully patterned jumpsuit will get you noticed around the enclosures, and from a practical point of view, it should also keep you relatively warm, if the sun disappears behind the clouds. Each year, Royal Ascot release their own style guide, which is always a good reference point for those who like to meticulously plan their outfit for the five-day festival.
Although a number of designers have the tendency to release bespoke outfits which are targeted at Royal Ascot attendees, eye-catching attire can also be purchased from high-street stores such as Karen Millen and Reiss. At the same time, a number of charity shops will also stock items that would help to create the right impression at the track. It is worth shopping around.
Always check the designated rules for each area of the Berkshire track, with the village enclosure permitting slightly more casual attire, although strapless cuts are still prohibited.
Don’t Start with the Headwear
Although hats and fascinators tend to take centre stage at the royal meeting, they should only be used to compliment the rest of the outfit. Those who work backwards can often get caught up in trying to perfectly align their entire outfit to their headwear, and this can come at a cost. It is important to choose the right hat for your face shape, as Good Housekeeping outlines. If you have smaller features, you don’t want them to be dwarfed by the oversized object on your head. Play to your strengths when it comes to headwear, but don’t let it dominate proceedings.
Dress for your Enclosure
Depending on where you are sitting, differing levels of dress are acceptable. The Royal Enclosure and Queen Anne Enclosure are the most formal while the next formal is the Village Enclosure and the Windsor Enclosure being the least formal. All enclosures except the Windsor Enclosure follow strict dress codes. To check the dress code guidelines, navigate to the Royal Ascot website and “what to wear” section to find all the details.
Think Practically
Although mid-June is technically classified as British Summer Time, it doesn’t always guarantee good weather in Berkshire. Overseas visitors can often get caught out by the ever-changing conditions at Royal Ascot, and it’s important to prepare for all eventualities.
If you’ve been to a summer wedding in the UK, you’ll be fully aware that the evenings can still get a little chilly, and it’s important to be armed with something stylish to slip over your shoulders during the evening’s entertainment.
That way, your attention can be fully dedicated to enjoying the races themselves as well as to supporting your favourite horses and jockeys. With odds of 4/1, the French bay horse Le Brivido has the most favourable odds on Paddy Power to win the Queen Anne Stakes at the moment. However, Mustashry comes second and is the most likely English horse to win these Stakes. By being ready for any weather the UK might bring, you can look effortless stylish while watching the exciting races.
Royal @Ascot Dress Code 2019 – What to Wear to Royal @Ascot https://t.co/OJLS8NQqmZ pic.twitter.com/Chu3lTKuBG
— LDNfashion (@LDNfashion) May 30, 2019
Royal Ascot is one of the highlights of the social calendar, and previous attendees will be all too aware of the importance of dressing to impress. It’s hard to beat the buzz of being trackside for one of the greatest sporting events in the UK, but it’s also imperative that you dress appropriately for the occasion. Outfits can take months of planning, and it’s always advised to start early with your preparations. If your eye-catching attire matches the prestige and elegance of the occasion, then you’re surely onto a winner.
