Ensure you still look stylish and appropriate with these tips
There are plenty of different style rules when it comes to Ascot, and you have to ensure that you’re adhering to them all, whilst remaining stylish of course.
Here we have some expert tips from Great British Racing on how to put your sartorial foot forward when you head to Ascot at the end of the month.
1) In general: Sartorial Sage and Former Editor of Vogue, Diane Vreeland once said, “Elegance is refusal” and the same goes for Royal Ascot – understated elegance is always a winner.
2) Ladies’ hats: An essential accessory at Royal Ascot and from top hats to berets, flying saucers to feathered fancies, hats of all shapes and sizes will no doubt be on display. Show pieces are all very well and it’s fine to be bold but make sure you don’t scare small children, animals, or for that matter, horses. Avoid the much-maligned fascinator.
3) Morning Dress: Formal gentlemen’s dress from the 19th century and obligatory if you’re in the Royal Enclosure. Make sure it’s well fitting and neither too tight nor too big. In the words of tailor Matthew Cartwright of Noden & Winsor, “If you don’t know your chest size, find out before it’s too late.”
4) Top Hat: The fit’s key. Not so big it falls down over your ears and not worn at a jaunty angle.
5) Dresses: You may well end up in a club after racing but the dress code stipulates that daytime dresses and skirts should be „of modest length, defined as falling just above the knee or longer. Straps on dresses should be at least one inch wide. It means anything strapless, or that’s too short or tight should be consigned to your wardrobe.
6) Pants: For men and women are essential, but should never be on show. Ever.
7) Shoes: Opt for comfort as you’ll be on your feet all day (hopefully). Chaps, shiny shiny, pointy shoes are not a good idea - patent is out and is not due to make a resurgence any time soon. As for stilettos, girls be aware you will sink on turf. Low-heeled courts are ideal and will avoid you having to purchase a cheeky pair of plastic flip flops at the end of the day, because your brand new heels have made your toes bleed.
8) Umbrella: It’s Britain. In June. It shouldn’t rain but it might so make sure you’re prepared.
9) Accessories: Diamonds are acceptable; you’ll be pleased to know. But leave the big shiny watches at home. If it’s large enough and shiny enough to blind a small child (or jockey - they’re around the same height) avoid.
10) Enjoy: Royal Ascot is one of the most glamorous and exciting weeks of the year. Dress up, enjoy the people watching and cheer on the horses in each of the 30 races taking place over the week.
To find out more about a great day at the races visit: www.lovetheraces.com
Tagged in fashion Style fashion tips