The Royal Ascot dress code is famed for being a bit of a faff. The rules and regulations of what you can and can't wear for an event like the races can be enough to send you galloping at speed in the opposite direction. But then, unless the weddings you attend are of the very fancy variety, when else do you get to wear a dress and a hat apart from Ascot?
Taking place every June, the event is the most glamorous on the racing calendar and is always attended by the royal family. No wonder there's such a strict protocol on what it is and isn't ok to wear. Ascot outfits vary depending on the enclosure, with some being more formal than others. The Royal Enclosure, for example, is the smartest area and requires formal daywear (dresses and skirts of a modest length, defined as falling just above the knee or longer, with straps that are one inch or thicker; hats or headpieces with a solid base of 10cm or more are acceptable). For the Queen Anne Enclosure, meanwhile, guests are advised to wear hats, headpieces or fascinators, while they're not allowed to wear sheer or strapless tops or dresses.
If in doubt about what to wear to Royal Ascot 2024, take inspiration from the race day outfits of the royal family. When Meghan Markle attended the races in 2018, she chose an Ascot dress with a difference, side-stepping the traditional floral frocks for a sharp shirt dress from Givenchy. Then there's Zara Tindall who wowed in a floral dress and traditional-looking hat headpiece in 2023.
To help navigate all the different enclosures - the style guides for which you can read in detail here - we asked stylist Fiona Huntingford for her expert advice on how to prep, what to wear and some essential Ascot outfit inspiration, plus who to emulate from Ascots gone-by.
SHOP: Royal Ascot Dresses That Fit The Dress Code
Rixorixolondon.com
You can never go wrong with a polka dot maxi, and this one from RIXO features part-shirred cuffs for extra puffy sleeves (for that Bridgerton-inspired look) and a cinched waist. It's also available in petite for those who usually struggle to find a dress that's the right length.
Karen Millen www.karenmillen.com
We're planning on wearing KarenMillen all summer long, but if you are too, and to more specifically, Royal Ascot, this blue midi dress will make you stand out. With a draped cape design that sits at an asymmetric angle and flows all the way down the back, Karen Millen have created a dress that'll give you all the drama you're looking for.
Harvey Nicholswww.harveynichols.com
An exaggerated shoulder piece is something that will stand the test of time, which means you'll be able to get lots of wear out of this dress, even once Royal Ascot is over. Made from a crepe fabric, the Lora midi dress will create a more tailored look, that's still flattering.
Harrodswww.harrods.com
Maybe you could take style notes from the royals and opt for something like Kate Middleton in this Self-Portrait dress - yes a dress not a jacket and skirt!
HOBBSwww.hobbs.com
To add a little sunshine into your Royal Ascot look, this HOBBS dress is perfect. Made from fluid silk in this gorgeous yellow hue this dress has feminine full sleeves and ruched seaming - making it one of the most striking occasion dresses when paired with a matching hat.
KITRIkitristudio.com
Another pastel-coloured number enters the list, this time in a pistachio green shade. Featuring intricate shimmer flower detailing, this dress would look perfect with a pair of wedges and a green headband. Plus, the design of this dress means it can be worn to weddings, parties, or even to another trip to the races.
LK Bennettwww.lkbennett.com
LK Bennett have released their own Royal Ascot collection, and this vintage-design dress is part of it. Designed as a reimagination of a French mid 19th century dresses, it features a round neck, short sleeves and a floaty skirt. This dress doesn't need much accessorising, so a pair of strappy heels will finish the outfit off nicely.
Harvey Nicholswww.harveynichols.com
If you don't want to opt for a traditional Royal Ascot dress, you can always choose a waistcoat and trouser combination. This Stine Goya one is a winner, with its floral print and embroidery with draped threads. Pair this with the matching trousers, a pair of statement heels and gold accessories to create an easy races look.
Harvey Nicholswww.harveynichols.com
HOBBSwww.hobbs.com
If bright colours aren't really your thing and you want a dress that's a little more toned-down, this HOBBS silk dress could be the one. Cut in a flattering, feminine silhouette with ruffles, this dress is super chic and can be easily matched with a pair of shoes you probably already have in your wardrobe. Whether that be black strappy heels or chunky wedges.
Reisswww.reiss.com
Reiss have released this gorgeous ethereal nude pink dress that's perfect (and modest enough) for Ascot. The dress itself has tailored pleats on the skirt and arms, with added detailing at the cuffs for a more flared appearance. The black at the bottom of the dress also makes it super easy to pair with black kitten heels and a matching bag.
Whistleswww.whistles.com
If you're on the hunt for a dress that flatters - this one from Whistles is a good one. That's because it has a slightly fitted top and voluminous skirt that falls just above the ankles. The dress also has more classic elements like frilled sleeves, frilled neckline, and tier detailing.
What are the main things to be aware of when it comes to Royal Ascot dresses?
Royal Ascot has strict dress codes that need to be adhered to depending on the enclosure you’re in; however, a formal day dress with a hat is a minimum for ladies (unless you’re in the Windsor Enclosure, where no formal dress code applies). Anything strapless is a no-no, dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or more, trousers and jumpsuits must be full length and dresses and skirts should fall just above or below the knee.
What is your advice for people who are coming for the first time?
Err on the side of caution when it comes to the dress codes – even if you’re not in the Royal Enclosure, take the opportunity to make a bit of an effort – you don’t go to Ascot every day!
What about if you don’t want to wear a dress – is there an alternative?
A tailored jumpsuit is a nice alternative to a dress – the style must still comply with dress codes, so the trousers must be full length and the top half must not be strappy or strapless.
In terms of cover-ups/jackets – what would you recommend?
Pashminas are allowed and are a good choice when the weather is too warm for anything more, however a jacket is more formal and adds structure to your outfit. In terms of shape, try a neat fitted jacket or dress coat with three quarter-length sleeves, which gives a pretty silhouette.
What are the rules when it comes to headwear?
Again, it depends on which enclosure you are in; for the Royal Enclosure at Ascot fascinators are not allowed and your hat or headpiece has to have a solid base of 10cm or more. In the Queen Anne Enclosure, fascinators are allowed. In the general enclosure hats don’t have to be worn.
How do you recommend finding the hat/fascinator that suits you best?
My advice would be to try on several different styles – don’t go for overly large hats or fascinators unless you’re trying to win a prize! When choosing the colour pick a dominant shade from your outfit or if wearing black for example, try a highlight colour or multi-toned style. Try to balance your headpiece with the rest of your outfit.
What are the best shoes for being on your feet all day at Ascot?
Shoes with a hidden wedge or platform are great when on your feet all day. Stilettos can be tricky if walking on grass. L.K. Bennett does a good selection in an array of neutral shades.
Who do you think has dressed well for Ascot in the past? What style lessons can we learn from their looks?
In 2016, the Duchess of Cambridge wore a stunning long-sleeved, white lace Dolce & Gabbana dress with a beautiful headpiece, simple pearl earrings, a box clutch and, of course, her usual neutral heels. She looked picture perfect for the Royal Enclosure. Sophie Wessex chose an all-black ensemble in 2014 and looked incredibly elegant with a large-brimmed angled hat, textured brocade, full-skirted dress with pockets, a simple clutch and drop pearl earrings.