On the hunt for the perfect dress for the races? You’re in the right place; we’ve got plenty of outfit inspiration to get you to ladies day in style, as well as tips for navigating tricky dress codes, what to take and of course, dressing for the unpredictable British weather…
Know The Dress Code
First things first, swot up on what access your ticket gives you and if there’s a dress code to adhere by. For example, if you’re off to the Royal Enclosure at Royal Ascot, your dress must be knee-length and have shoulder straps wider than one inch.
This elegant pink dress on the left ticks all the boxes:
As does this pussy-bow style:
But Don’t Play It Too Safe
Royal Ascot permits trouser suits and jumpsuits, suggesting that most race courses will also follow suit. So consider experimenting with a punchy all-in-one or a statement jacket and co-ordinating trousers as a modern alternative for an outfit for the races.
This vibrant jumpsuit sings of springtime glamour:
While this is a jacket and trouser combination you’ll keep reaching for time and time again:
Nod to The Trends
Certainly, anything sheer or asymmetric should be avoided (you don’t want to fall foul of those dress code officials) but soft ruffles and busy jacquard prints worn as co-ords are the way to go.
And if you hadn’t noticed, pink is big news this season – be it bright fuschia or in delectable pastel form.
Carefully Consider Your Footwear
Those six-inch heels may look irresistible, but the reality will be far more brutal; a day at the races is a long day. Instead, consider a more forgiving mid heel or a court with a T-bar to make navigating uneven ground that little bit easier. Best of all for grassy terrain is a pair of wedges or shoes with a chunky heel – you won’t be sinking anywhere in those.
Blue Metallic Heel Court Shoes
Patent T-Bar Shoes with Flower Heel
Metallic Grey Wedges with Woven Heel
Don’t Forget Your Coat…
…this is Britain after all, and nothing will make your perfect pastel outfit look more off-kilter than a leather biker jacket or wintry pea coat. Invest in a chic cover-up that will see you through a slew of summer weddings too and you won’t regret it. White goes with everything, as do pale blush shades – but don’t be afraid of a bold pop of colour.
And some more of our favourites.
Pastel Pink Lightweight Belted Coat
White Kimono Jacket with Three Quarter Sleeves
Have Fun With Finishing Touches
Bold earrings are big news this season, so if you’re toying between the former or a necklace, our money’s on ear chandeliers right now. Find your finishing touches with Accessories.
Apply the same school of thought to your wrists too, with architectural pieces of costume jewellery that will really help elevate your whole outfit.
Top off with a cross body bag. A style on a delicate chain looks more occasion-appropriate than a chunkier style, while still keeping your hands free. Metallics are a good bet as they complement all colours.
And Don’t Forget…
A few trusted essentials will help make your day out run even more smoothly. From tissues to a spritz of your favourite perfume, to a blister emergency and a pocket-sized phone charger, the only thing not to forget now is your purse – good luck!
