Editor's Picks | Race Day Outfits

When dressing up for the races: there are only a few rules to abide by, the rest is pure fashion fun. Sartorial dress codes at different races and in different enclosures vary, so the safest way to approach race day attire is to consider a few core key style tenets when planning your outfit.

First things first: my preference is always for investing in staple smart pieces that will work not only for race day but for other festivities throughout the year, too. I tend to opt for smart blazer-trouser co-ords; amazing jumpsuits and classic dresses. Then there’s the slightly trickier aspect of footwear to be considered when styling an ensemble for the races – stiletto heels simply won’t do on grass, so I would advise looking for block heels or wedges to counter this slight hazard. And finally, there’s the art of covering your head with a fascinator or statement headband. I tend to favour the latter purely for its style credentials but it’s worth checking the dress code of the races you’re attending to make sure that you opt for the right headgear.

More importantly though, race day dressing is about dressing up, having fun in the sun with some of your favourite people and (all being well) winning some cash. It’s a fun day out in the sun made all the better with an amazing outfit – these are my race day picks.

Pink has been a staple of the catwalks in recent years, with everything from blush to bubblegum pink sweeping collections into a fuchsia frenzy. This three-piece suit is the perfect way to embrace the trend for the races. I’d opt for a snug fit of the trousers and waistcoat and a slightly slouchier and more oversized look in the blazer, which I’d wear draped over my shoulders for a nonchalant feel. Add some silver or gold accessories, a killer piece of headgear and a chic updo and just watch the compliments roll in.

I love the drama of an asymmetrical dress. Generally speaking, I’m not much of a dress kind of girl but I think there’s a way to elevate them in a way that is sophisticated enough for the races. To allow the neckline to really shine, I’d sweep my hair from my face and opt for an amazing pair of statement earrings. I’d also invest in a pair of simple block heels in a gold colour and, for those wanting to inject a bit of personality, add a pop of emerald green, orange or yellow in the form of a fun handbag. That way, you still have an element of fun while also letting the dress still be the talking piece of the outfit.

The appeal of investing in a monochromatic two-piece is that it’s a true seasonless all-rounder. Here’s a stylistic duet that will work in the warmer weather, the colder weather and everything in between. I’d style this for the races with statement black accessories – a stellar black mini handbag, some amazing chandelier earrings and a pop of colour on the lip or eyes are all it needs to be taken for a spin at the races. You might want to also snap up a killer stain remover too, should any grass stains make their way onto the suit.

I adore the drama of this statement jacket – it’s the kind of thing that, with the right care, will see you through smart occasions for the rest of your life. I’d opt for the black, which I’d elevate with a pop of red lipstick and a chic pair of pointed kitten heels. It’s a jacket that means business in all the best ways.

The ease of a jumpsuit can never be underestimated for any form of occasion. I love the sweeping details on this black number, which just needs a pair of gold platforms, a bouncy blow-dry and a killer sweep of colourful eyeshadow for the perfect races-ready nod to the 70s.