What to Wear to the Races

With this year’s race season fast approaching, finding an ensemble that both adheres to the dress code yet reflects personal style can present somewhat of a challenge. That’s why Karen Millen has curated the ultimate race day dressing guide to master this season’s key events – and what dress codes need to be followed.

ASCOT

One of the most celebrated Race Day events – and additionally with the strictest dress code, Royal Ascot is held in June, a highly profiled occasion. Providing the perfect reason to invest in a beautiful event ensemble, there are a few specific style rules to adhere to, especially in the Royal Enclosure. Fascinators can be worn in areas such as The Queen Anne Enclosure and The Village Enclosure, however if in the Royal Enclosure they are not permitted. Instead, a hat or headpiece of at least four inches must be worn. Dresses should be appropriate, with strapless and sheer dresses not permitted. In the Royal Enclosure, skirt length should be ‘modest’, either just above the knee or below.

Queen Anne Enclosure

When visiting the Queen Anne Enclosure, a formal a hat or fascinator must be worn and midriffs should be covered. Strapless garments are not permitted, including Bardot necklines, one-shoulder designs and sheer sleeves. If choosing to wear trousers or a jumpsuit, ensure this is a full-length piece.

Village Enclosure

Although this enclosure is considered as more relaxed than the former, guests are asked to follow a similar dress code to the Queen Anne Enclosure, with hats, headpieces or fascinators being worn at all times, midriffs covered and strapless garments not permitted

Windsor Enclosure

This enclosure has no formal dress code, but guests are asked to dress in smart daywear, hats and fascinators are recommended but not required.

EPSOM

One of the year’s most prestigious horse racing events, the Epsom Derby is run at Surrey’s Epsom Down racecourse on the first Saturday of June every year. Bringing in visitors from across the country, the general dress code follows a ‘dress to feel your best’ mantra – with a prize at the style awards for the taking - however the Queen Elizabeth Enclosure follows a slightly more regulated policy. With men permitted to wear Morning Suits, women should wear a formal dress and fascinator.

THE GRAND NATIONAL

Held in mid-June, The Grand National is located at Aintree Racecourse. Seen as ‘a spectacle of colour’, there is no official dress code, however many seem it as the perfect opportunity to sport a suitably glamorous look. Think colour pop hues, statement footwear and considered accessories. With The Grand National earlier in the race day season, it creates opportunity to invest in an occasionwear piece that can be worn and styled for multiple events throughout the summer, and the months following.

SANDOWN RACES

Sandown Races events start in mid-June. The Surrey-based location and timings of the races means that you can expect to attend an event in the height of summer, which means that a warmer weather wardrobe can be considered. For those who aren’t fan of fascinators – good news, these are not compulsory, meaning that there’s more flexibility to build on the outfit itself. Again, there’s no strict dress code, so take the opportunity to create an outfit that’s polished, yet dynamic in the style stakes. A jumpsuit can make a great alternative to a dress, and, if hoping for an evening out to follow a day of joviality, it provides an effortless transition for day to evening.