“Royal Ascot is synonymous with sartorial elegance. This is upheld by our dress code, which invites guests to contribute to an occasion heralded as a major fashion event in its own right”

Being one of the biggest events in the racing calendar, finding the perfect outfit for Royal Ascot can be a challenge. The Royal Ascot race meeting in June, unlike most racecourses, has a very strict dress code which both ladies and men are expected to adhere to. If you’re heading to the Grandstand, a few of the Ascot dress code guidelines are as follows:

• Hems must sit either just above the knee or longer.
• Straps must be of at least 1 inch, meaning that strapless, sheer, spaghetti, halter or off the shoulder styles are off limits, as is showing any midriff.
• A headpiece must be worn with a solid base of at least a 10cm diameter, so that excludes the faithful fascinator.

Owned by the Royal Family since it’s opening in 1711, it’s no surprise that the Royal Ascot meeting aims to win on the style stakes and it means the pressure is on for ladies to find the perfect fashionable outfit that fits their strict brief. We’ve pulled together a few of our favourite (and purse-friendly) high street pieces for Ascot fashion 2016 to help you along the way.

An occasion like Royal Ascot calls for a classic dress in flattering shapes and fabrics. Choose something with a hem either just above or below the knee to ensure your look is demure yet on trend. Ascot request that ladies do not wear anything sheer or strapless so look for a style with at least a thicker strap or sleeves. An outfit like this lace midi in a statement shade of red is the perfect look to go for to inject a bit of colour and vibrancy. Finish with a nude clutch and shoes and a fabulous cara meehan london headpiece to finish!

Reiss Kathy Dress

Whistles Amelia Lace Dress

Ted Baker Odeela Floral Print Dress

Seperates give a cool and effortless vibe that is still elegant and perfect for Ascot. Again, remember to choose a skirt length and top style that adheres to Ascot’s dress code. Have fun with seperates and mix it up with statement prints and colours to create a stand-out look.

A Line Skirt and Darling Lace Top

 

Reiss Lace Pencil Skirt

Ted Baker Trellis Pencil Skirt

Whistles Miriam Stripe Midi Skirt

Elegant and feminine, a beautifully tailored jumpsuit ticks all the boxes when it comes to smart race day dressing. Bring the look right up to date by going for a wide leg or shorter culotte jumpsuit in jewel tones or pretty prints. Save the feather or net hat for another occasion and accessorise the look with a sleek and modern headpiece or wide brimmed hat.

Outfit details via Vintage Styler Polyvore

 

 

 

AQAQ Hustla Cap Sleeve Jumpsuit 

Coast Teleri Tailored Cullottes

Reiss Frenchie Jumpsuit

Whistles Wild Floral Silk Jumpsuit

Finishing the look with the perfect hat or headpiece is crucial to the overall look, and it is essential that one is worn.

A headpiece set onto a band or a vintage-inspired pillbox hat is the perfect style and as an added bonus won’t mean your hair is messed up at the end of the day

We love a big statement hat! Have a scroll through Cara Meehan London collection for your perfect statement hat.

Remember not to be afraid to go all-out on the hat front, you can really have fun with this element of the outfit!