MARCH is here at last, bringing sunshine and the excitement of the Cheltenham Festival – the first of many thrilling horse-racing events this season.
That means it’s time to up your style game and start planning your race-day outfit.
There’s plenty to think about, with dress codes being a top priority.
Ascot has strict rules, and failing to follow them could mean being turned away at the gate, so it’s definitely worth paying attention to the details.
You don’t need to break the bank to claim the title of best dressed —there are plenty of stylish and affordable pieces on the high street that will have you arriving in style.
Whether you’re making a last-minute dash to Cheltenham or getting ahead of the game for Ascot, Fashion Assistant Emily Regan has made shopping a breeze by curating five stunning race-day looks.
COUNTRY CHIC
Liven up a traditional race-day outfit with a printed scarf[/caption]
- Cape, £135, Jigsaw – BUY NOW
- Dress, £66, River Island – BUY NOW
- Earrings, £14, River Island – BUY NOW
- Boots, £89.99, Reserved – BUY NOW
- Scarf, £45, Joules – BUY NOW
- Bag, £45.99, Mango – BUY NOW
If you prefer a classic equestrian style but want to match the look to the season, here’s how to achieve that for spring.
Checks were all the rage in winter, and this cape-style dress from River Island gives the trend a softer twist, thanks to its lighter hues, making it ideal for spring.
The gold buckle belt adds an equestrian touch (reminiscent of the Gucci Horsebit chain!), giving it a luxurious feel for just £66.
Pair with some suede ruched boots to keep your legs warm, and complete the look with this beautiful brown bag and a printed neck scarf.
If you feel a chill, a gold sparkly cape cardigan is a lightweight layering piece that drapes effortlessly over the dress, complementing its shape without any fuss.
FLOWING FLORALS
This gorgeous dress would double up as a brilliant holiday look[/caption]
- Fascinator, £65, Phase Eight – BUY NOW
- Dress, £175, & Other Stories – BUY NOW
- Bag, £89, Charles & Keith – BUY NOW
- Bangles, £19.99, Zara – BUY NOW
- Shoes, £27.99, New Look – BUY NOW
If the dress code is quite strict, it likely includes guidelines about covering your shoulders and a “just above the knee” length requirement.
While this might not seem too difficult at first, finding a dress that meets both criteria can be challenging.
Florals are a popular choice at the races, and this dream dress from & Other Stories ticks all the boxes, ensuring you stay within the rules.
With sleeves and a flowy silhouette, it’s perfect for any weather.
For those attending the royal enclosure, a headpiece is typically required, and Phase Eight offers plenty of stylish options.
If pink isn’t your thing, try accessories in shades of green or yellow.
THE POWER SUIT
A bold two-piece suit is a great alternative to a dress[/caption]
- Trousers, £149, Karenmillen.com – BUY NOW
- Blazer, £229, Karenmillen.com – BUY NOW
- Blouse, £20, Primark – BROWSE HERE
- Headband, £38, Clementine & Mint – BUY NOW
- Shoes, £46, River Island – BUY NOW
- Bag, £69, Charles & Keith – BUY NOW
If you don’t typically gravitate towards dresses, a stylishly tailored suit offers a fantastic alternative, and it screams confidence, too!
While this Karen Millen co-ord may come with a higher price tag, it’s a smart investment, as you’ll be able to wear each piece individually long after race day, making it great value in terms of cost per wear.
For a more feminine touch, layer the suit with a soft pussybow blouse to add a delicate contrast to the sharp lines of the suit.
If you’re not fond of extravagant hats or fascinators, fear not, there are plenty of chic headbands out there that deliver the same classy look.
Complete your ensemble with a coordinating bag and a pair of classic sling-back heels for an elegant, polished finish.
MONOCHROME
Abercrombie has a fantastic selection of occasionwear[/caption]
- Bag, £39.50, M&S Collection at Marks & Spencer – BUY NOW
- Dress, £100, Abercrombie & Fitch – BUY NOW
- Earrings, £15.99, Zara – BUY NOW
- Sunglasses, £9.99, H&M – BUY NOW
- Shoes, £14, Primark – BROWSE HERE
Many race-goers opt for monochrome outfits, but instead of sticking to just black or white, try combining both for an elegant, old-money vibe.
Abercrombie & Fitch has a fantastic selection of dresses, including this polka dot design – ideal if you’re comfortable with spaghetti straps.
For a more relaxed dress code, this could be the perfect choice – keep it simple with black heels, but elevate the look with striking accessories.
A pearl bag would not only complement the outfit, but also make a chic addition to your holiday wardrobe.
Finish with some black sunglasses for that extra touch of sophistication.
BRIGHT & BOLD
Mix and match bright colours for a fun look that’ll set you apart from the crowd[/caption]
- Fascinator, £65, John Lewis – BUY NOW
- Dress, £29.99, Zara – BUY NOW
- Earrings, £159, Missoma – BUY NOW
- Shoes, £29.99, Public Desire at New Look – BUY NOW
- Bag, £88, Anthropologie – BUY NOW
If you like bold colour, don’t shy away from incorporating vibrant shades into your outfit, especially if your race-date is scheduled during the warmer summer months.
This stunning satin dress from Zara is an absolute bargain – it’s under £30, plus it doubles up as the perfect holiday piece.
The ruched straps add a modern twist and the satin fabric not only exudes luxury, but also feels incredibly light and airy, making it an ideal choice for a sweltering day.
Plus, don’t hesitate to experiment with colour combinations – mixing hues can elevate your look and make you stand out from the crowd.
Outfits NEVER to wear to the races, according to a fashion pro
Fabulous’ Fashion Editor Clemmie Fieldsend has revealed what you should never wear to the races
It should go without saying that dresses must cover your bum — ideally knee-length or longer.
Coats should be tailored, as a nod to the grandeur and smartness of the day.
And footwear should remain on your feet – all day. So make sure shoes are comfortable.
Another rule of thumb is to never wear white.
Remember, you’ll be penned in with hundreds of people, and will need to eat and drink — that means ample opportunity for spillage.
I’ll never forget the images of a punter in 2019 who spilled red wine down her white jumpsuit.
Her pals got creative and decided to drench the entire Pretty Little Thing outfit with the bottle’s remains to create a tie-dye look!
Instead, just remember your coat — not only because of the unpredictable weather, but should you slop ketchup from a hamburger down your front, you can cover yourself up, too.
When it comes to shoes, heeled sandals are a big no-no.
They are great for giddy-up glamour, but not suited to being outdoors all day.
Try a wedged heel or closed-foot court shoe with a small, chunky heel for extra support and comfort under the balls of your feet.
Zara Tindall always gets it right, for example with pair of black court shoes and slim-fit trousers.
Also, don’t be one of those country bumpkin try-hards!
A nod to equestrian style is fine, but you often see people dressing head to toe in tweed or wearing Peaky Blinders-style flat caps.
Finally, the best-dressed at Ascot are always mindful of their boobs.
Listen, I get it. If you’ve got ’em, flaunt ’em.
But just not too much.
Tastefully show the crease of a cleavage and leave everything else to the imagination.
Showing off your entire bust is something that should be reserved for the comfort of your home – or a night out on the pull!
