How to Dress Correctly for Royal Ascot
Created in partnership with ASCOT
As well as embracing the spirit of racing, there’s plenty of culinary experiences on offer. With dining options ranging from à la carte menus by Michelin-starred chefs to informal and casual, there’s something for every taste.
As the most prestigious event in the British social calendar, it's also one of the few sporting events where the dress code is non-negotiable. With four enclosures to consider, each with slightly different rules, we’ve rounded up the main dos and don’ts while offering up some inspiration on what to wear...
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Royal Enclosure
This is where the rules are at their most rigorous – ladies are kindly reminded that formal daywear is required.
Dresses: These should be of a “modest” length –falling just above the knee or longer. Straps should be at least 1in (2.5cm); strapless, off the shoulder, halter neck and spaghetti straps are not permitted. The same goes for dresses with cut-out details and sheer straps or sheer sleeves.
Jackets: Outerwear and pashminas may be worn, but tops and dresses underneath should still comply with the Royal Enclosure Dress Code.
Matching suits: Trousers suits should be full length to the ankle and of matching material and colour. Jumpsuits are welcome but they should fall below the knee, with regulations matching those for dresses. Tops and skirts should be matching, and of a modest length. Mis-matching tops and skirts are not permitted.
Hats: A hat is an Ascot essential – though a headpiece with a solid base of at least 4in (10cm) in diameter is an acceptable alternative. Fascinators are not allowed.
Queen Anne Enclosure
Ladies within these enclosures are required to dress in a manner “befitting of a formal occasion”.
Dresses: Dresses are required to have straps. Strapless and sheer dresses are not permitted and that includes off-the-shoulder, Bardot and one-shoulder pieces – as well as tops with sheer straps and sleeves. Midriffs should always be covered.
Matching Suits: Trouser suits must be full length, and jumpsuits should fall below the knee. Both must adhere to the neckline regulations above. Shorts are not allowed.
Hats: A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times.
The Village Enclosure
Ladies within the Village Enclosure are required to dress in a manner as befits a formal occasion.
Hats: A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times.
Dresses: As with the other enclosures, dresses shouldn’t be strapless or sheer. So no off-the-shoulder, Bardot or one shoulder pieces. Dresses and tops with sheer straps and sleeves are also not permitted. Midriffs must be covered.
Suits: Trouser suits must be full-length, and jumpsuits should fall below the knee. Both must adhere to the neckline and sleeve regulations above. Shorts are not permitted
Shoes: The Village Enclosure is a grassed area, so stiletto spikes are probably best avoided.
Windsor Enclosure
While there is no official dress code for this enclosure, ladies are encouraged to dress in smart daywear, and a hat or fascinator is recommended.
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