The annual Royal Ascot may take place on a racecourse, but for us fashion obsessives, the catwalk of extravagant outfits is undoubtedly the main event. Think feather-adorned headpieces and floor-sweeping lace gowns. It’s a lot. That being said, if you’re lucky enough to have scored a ticket to Ladies’ Day, or if you plan on attending other races around the country, there’s no need to be intimidated by the extravagant dress traditions.
The Ascot rules have loosened up over the past few decades (though it took until 2017 for jumpsuits to be permitted), so as long as your skirt sits no higher than knee-length and your shoulder straps are thicker than one inch, the rest is relatively flexible. All you need is a couple of pieces that feel a little fancy, and yes, if this includes a hat it must be one with a base of 4 inches in diameter, to be precise (unless your ticket is for the Windsor Enclosure, this accessory is mandatory).
You might see the event as an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone—particularly if your regular uniform consists of jeans and a T-shirt—and try something statement-making. A bright print or a silhouette you’ve never tried before, for example. But if your priority is to feel like yourself so you can relax and sip rosé while you watch the race, that’s okay too.
We’ve got you covered with six stylish outfits you don’t need to think too hard about. Keep scrolling if you’ve been wondering what to wear to Ascot this summer.
Style Notes: Given that we’re talking about a centuries-old tradition, a vintage-style tea dress feels like an appropriate choice. Maximise the nostalgia with a pair of classic Mary Janes and cat-eye shades.
I always turn to Rixo for contemporary takes on retro silhouettes.
These are Rachael’s exact sunnies, and they’re already proving to be a summer best seller.
Also an eye-catching wedding guest accessory.
This pale yellow hue is so summery.
Style Notes: Races attire doesn’t have to completely deviate from your everyday style. Just pair your favourite blazer with a pleated midi skirt, then add some strappy heels to give the outfit a smart flourish.
This linen-blend style is perfect for summer.
Pretty dresses aside, Reformation also makes great basics.
I’d style this with a black crop top and slides at the weekend.
So cute—and one you can definitely re-wear when the races are over.
These heels will go with everything.
Style Notes: As of the 1970s, you don’t have to wear a dress to the races. Show up in a well-tailored suit in an eye-catching print, and I guarantee you’ll be showered with compliments.
I like the idea of ‘clashing’ this suit with blue accessories.
As with all sets, you can mix-and-match the separates.
This strikes the perfect balance between laid-back and ladylike.
Carrie Bradshaw would approve.
Style Notes: Let’s face it—there’s no guarantee that the sun will be shining for the races. You’ll be spending most of the day outside, so a knitted dress is a smart move other attendees will wish they thought of first.
A dress this bold styles itself.
You can’t go wrong with gold-toned hoops.
A staple shoe you’ll wear all summer long.
Style Notes: Don’t overlook the simple white dress you have hanging in your wardrobe, and don’t feel the need to hide it behind loud accessories. Choose unfussy, elegant finishing touches and your refinement will speak for itself.
The broderie anglaise panels make this dress feel really special.
Not just for the races.
You can also detach the strap and carry this as a clutch.
These versatile sandals come in five easy-to-style shades.
Style Notes: Just because it’s a formal event, you definitely don’t have to wear heels. If anything, flats are a far wiser choice for this occasion—trudging through grass in stilettos isn’t fun, no matter how skilled you are at walking in them.
Dôen makes the dreamiest dresses.
Dainty but impactful.
I am *in love* with these flats. No exaggeration.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next Up: 10 Tips for Dressing for the Races and Still Feeling Like Yourself
