The Best Dresses to Wear at the Races

With events such as Cheltenham, Ascot and Epsom on the horizon, race season is in full swing, and a prestigious occasion such as that deserves a haute wardrobe to match. Different venues require different dress requirements – Royal Ascot upholds their attendees’ wardrobes to a high standard with more regulations, whereas other racecourses may have a more relaxed practice. Whilst ensuring that the rules are followed for each individual racecourse is key, curating a wardrobe that speaks to your sophisticated style, whilst remaining fashion forward and holding wardrobe longevity is also to be considered. Regardless of your preference, discover the three best styles of dresses to wear to the races this summer.

Simple-yet-elevated

Nothing quite says timeless style like a simple dress in one statement hue, be it a pastel tone or brighter iteration. A crisp white piece, enhanced with a full and flowing skirt with feminine allure embraces tradition, or a figure skimming structured design displays forever style potential. With timeless longevity, consider a one-hued wonder that can be enhanced with statement finishing touches.

When it comes to accessorising, consider each type of event – and whether this requires more muted, traditional jewellery and footwear - for an event like Ascot, it will naturally be more appropriate to look to classic pearls or diamonds, whereas Ladies’ Day permits the opportunity for creativity.

In print

Embrace the joviality of summer in a bold printed design, be it nodding to the traditional in an opulent floral print, or a tropical piece - made for an event with the height of summer in mind. If an ambition for attendance is to win the award of ‘best dressed’, then a refined hint of print polish allows the opportunity to do this.

With a printed dress the focal point of the outfit, ensure accessories are pared back and compliment the overall look. Be it by bringing out the colour of the dress through a matching pair of shoes or a fascinator in the same hue, choose every piece with intention to curate the ultimate elevated outfit.

Dramatic details

The races are a cause for celebration, one that requires an outfit which exudes decadence and high glamour. Why not consider a piece drenched in detail, a true walkable piece of art that adds luxe appeal to any wardrobe. Guipure lace in particular is a key style for this season, its precision and beauty making every outfit a moment. Showcased through Grecian-inspired pleated dresses or naturistic floral designs, an occasion like the races deserves haute elegance – and a detailed dress provides just that.

Race day fascinators

The epitome of race day styling tradition, consider a fascinator to tie up your look with tradition and contemporary flourish. Always worn on the right side of the face as the correct polite custom, a disc nods to timeless elegance, whereas a bow is a more contemporary playful option. If you are unsure on what style to choose, think about the outfit as a whole, and what will best complete this.