Royal Ascot Dress Guide: Tips for Stylish Attire at the Prestigious Event

It's that awesome time of the year again when we get to dress up for one of the most epic events: The Royal Ascot! But what exactly is it?

The Royal Ascot is a renowned horse racing event held annually in Ascot, England. It is one of the most prestigious and high-profile horse racing meetings in the world. The event takes place over five days in the third week of June and attracts a mix of royalty, high society, celebrities, and racing enthusiasts.

The Royal Ascot dates back to 1711 when it was founded by Queen Anne. It has since become a significant event in the British social calendar and is attended by members of the royal family, including the Queen herself. The event features several high-profile races, with the highlight being the Gold Cup, a prestigious race run over a distance of two and a half miles

In addition to the horse racing, the Royal Ascot is renowned for its formal dress code and fashion. Attendees are expected to adhere to a strict dress code, particularly in the Royal Enclosure, which includes wearing formal hats or fascinators for women and morning suits or formal daywear for men.

The event combines the thrill of horse racing with a unique social and cultural experience, attracting visitors from around the world. It offers a blend of sporting excellence, fashion, fine dining, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a truly memorable occasion.

There can be a lot of pressure in deciding what exactly to wear to this prestigious event, so we’ve listed some tips about the royal ascot dress code. The dress code at Royal Ascot varies depending on the enclosure you're in. The Royal Enclosure has the strictest dress code, followed by the Queen Anne Enclosure and the Village Enclosure. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for your enclosure, but here are some general tips.

Hats or Fascinators

Women are required to wear hats or substantial fascinators in the Royal Enclosure. For other enclosures, hats are optional but still highly encouraged. Choose a stylish and elegant hat that compliments your outfit.

Dress Length

Dresses and skirts should be of modest length, falling just above the knee or longer. Avoid excessively short or revealing outfits.

Necklines and Straps

Dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or greater. Off-the-shoulder, halter neck, and spaghetti straps are not allowed in the Royal Enclosure.

Dress Material and Patterns

Opt for high-quality, breathable fabrics such as silk, linen, or cotton. Avoid loud prints and opt for sophisticated patterns or solid colours.

Tailoring

Ensure your outfit is well-tailored and fits you perfectly. Ill-fitting or overly tight attire may not be permitted.

Jacket or Cover-Up

In the Royal Enclosure, a matching suit or dress with a jacket or coat is required. Strapless, sheer, and cropped jackets are not permitted. For other enclosures, a jacket or cover-up is optional but can be useful for changing weather conditions.

Footwear 

Wear comfortable and elegant shoes. High heels are traditional, but if you prefer flats, choose a dressy pair. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, and open-toed shoes. For men, wearing a great pair of dress shoes combined with dress socks makes for the perfect combination. Suits can be professional and not leave a lot of room to add a fun twist, doing so through your socks is a great outlet.

At Peper Harow, we have a variety of dress socks to choose from which are perfect for this occasion. Whether it be simple and sophisticated or a bold pop of colour, there is something for you.

Accessories

Complete your look with tasteful accessories, such as a small handbag or clutch that matches your outfit. Jewellery should be minimal and understated.

Grooming

Pay careful attention to your grooming and personal presentation. Ensure that your hair is stylishly coiffed and impeccably groomed, while your makeup should be expertly applied, exuding a refined and polished look.

We hope this list has helped you to find some inspiration on creating the best outfit for the Royal Ascot. Remember to carefully review the specific dress code guidelines for the enclosure you will be attending to ensure you meet all requirements. Following these general guidelines will help you create a sophisticated and appropriate look for the day.