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What to Wear to Royal Ascot 2024

Feature: Quick Read
Words by ELEANOR HIBBERD

Dreaming of a My Fair Lady moment at the races? Navigating the Royal Ascot dress code can be a daunting prospect, but the sartorial possibilities are plentiful once you’ve grasped the basic dos and don’ts. From elegant midi dresses by Alessandra Rich and Zimmermann to fashion-forward suiting at Destree and sculptural millinery by way of Emily London and Rachel Trevor-Morgan, here’s everything you need for a stylish day at the races.

Royal Enclosure

At the historic and most formal heart of the event, hemlines should fall just above the knee or longer, midriffs must be covered and straps should have a width of one inch or greater – any form of strapless or halter neckline is not allowed (though open backs do fall within the rules). If you’re not keen on dresses, full-length jumpsuits and trouser suits of matching material and colour are welcome, too. And let’s not forget the headwear; Royal Ascot’s unofficial millinery show garners as much interest as the races themselves. Hats, headpieces or hatinators with a solid base diameter of at least four inches must be worn – meaning certain fascinators are not permitted.

Model wears a cream A.W.A.K.E. Mode skirt suit and white Rachel Trevor-Morgan hat

Think formal elegance for Royal Ascot’s most exclusive area.

dress for the races

Queen Anne Enclosure

At this vibrant, fashion-forward epicentre, the dress code is less strict than that of the Royal Enclosure, with no minimum hemline enforced – though a level of formality is still expected from every racegoer. For example, midriffs must still be covered, trousers and jumpsuits should be full-length, and strapless necklines (including Bardot and one shoulder) are not permitted – nor are transparent materials. Hats and headpieces of any size are essential, including fascinators, which are welcome in this area.

dress for the races

Dress to impress with a fashion-forward look at this vibrant epicentre.

Model wears pink Destree suit and blush pink Rachel Trevor-Morgan hatinator

Destree​ suit, Rachel Trevor-Morgan​ hat, Dior bag, Jil Sander earrings

Village Enclosure

This buzzing trackside area adheres to the same dress code as the Queen Anne Enclosure – however, as this is a fully grassed section, wedges or block heels are recommended in place of stilettos, and a smaller hat size is advised.

Opt for smaller headpieces and chunky lawn-proof heels for this bustling grassy enclosure.

dress for the races

Windsor Enclosure

Stationed at the heart of the action, the vibrant Windsor Enclosure benefits from a laid-back approach with no official dress code in place – though attendees are encouraged to dress in smart daywear with a hat, fascinator or headband.

dress for the races

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the only area without an official dress code.

Model wears green floral Zimmermann dress and embellished Jennifer Behr headband

Zimmermann​ dress, Jennifer Behr​ headband, Jil Sander​ earrings, Savette​ bag

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