Finding the best dresses for any formal occasion is already a whirlwind, but finding the best race day dresses for any upcoming race day proves even more of a difficult task. Not only do you want to look your best, but you may find you have to adhere to a particularly stringent dress code, which makes hunting for that perfect garment that much harder.
With the Royal Ascot well on its way (starting June 18 this year), the pressure to find that perfect race day dress comes in thick and fast. Looking your best and making a statement is certainly mandatory, but knowing what's appropriate can be tricky.
For occasions such as these, illustrious maxi dresses are your best friends, as they radiate elegance and class, an exemplary combination for a day out celebrating in exclusive style. Summer dresses with sleeves are particularly popular when it comes to race days, thanks to the often stringent dress codes. With high-end events comes high-class outfits, but here at Grazia we have found some of the best race day dresses on the market that will turn heads - whatever race day you attend.
From Rixo to Reformation, there really are an array of retailers and brands to choose from. Take a look at some of the best race day dresses below that include asymmetric, ruffled and slip dresses - to name a few.
SHOP: The Best Race Day Dresses
rixolondon.com
It doesn't get better than a floral dress for a day at the races, and this Rixo dress is no exception, featuring a hand-painted unique floral design.
rixolondon.com
Polka dot is a common motif when it comes to the races, so what better dress to wear than this one from Rixo? Featuring button-down detailing and puff sleeves, we're definitely adding this one to our basket.
www.stories.com
Feel beautiful in blue thanks to this dress from & Other Stories, featuring a gorgeous sweetheart neckline complimented by a light blue flirtatious floral print.
www.reiss.com
A gorgeous coral is the perfect summer colour and complements any skin tone. This Reiss dress has a slightly cinched waistline and chic high-neck detailing.
kitristudio.com
This romantically ruffled midi from brand Kitri comes in the most beautiful lilac shade, complete with tulip floral detailing and a flattering, free-flowing skirt hemline.
www.zara.com
A simple yet stunning dress from Zara, ideal for a day at the races. This number can be worn at any point during the summer months, meaning it's versatile, too.
www.reiss.com
A striking pink hue will ensure all eyes are on you. Asymmetry is in right now, so we expect you'll receive lots of compliments in this Reiss number.
www.selfridges.com
A patterned dress never goes amiss and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For race day, opt for a pair of nude heels and a nude bag to match.
www.theoutnet.com
A ruffle detail number from Melissa Odabash, complete with a subtle v-neck for a flirtatious twist on an otherwise classic dress, followed by subtle balloon sleeves and wrap detailing.
www.zara.com
A draped dress is a downright classic and chic wardrobe addition made for day events such as the Royal Ascot, take this Zara number as an example. Pair with white sling-back heels and silver accessories.
www.theoutnet.com
A chiffon base dress gives added dimension, so we think this Nicholas number would be perfect if you're looking for something that offers slightly more movement. The cowl neck design is a touch we can't get enough of either.
www.theoutnet.com
This bold and electric green midi dress by Victoria Beckham is an ideal wardrobe choice for a sunny day at the races. Pair with gold accessories for a head-turning ensemble.
shop.mango.com
Another asymmetric dress, but who can blame anyone when they look this good? Mango have made an ideal summer dress that simultaneously works perfectly for a race day.
www.selfridges.com
This show-stopping cherry red dress is one we predict will sell out fast, despite it being part of Reformation's newest collection. Its flawless fit makes it perfect if you're looking to feel confident during daytime events.
www2.hm.com
A true classic when it comes to high street brands, H&M always seem to stock some of the best summer dresses across the board. This one is perfect race day material at a generous price of £37.99.
How should I dress for a race day?
Dressing for one of the more formal occasions you can attend is guaranteed to raise a few questions. What is deemed appropriate is probably the first thing you ask yourself, no matter what dress you look at, and you may find that choosing long summer dresses is your best bet.
It's common for race days such as the Royal Ascot to have specific dress codes, depending on which enclosure you are watching from. We've included the Royal Ascot dress code below so you can shop confidently in accordance to their regulations.
Royal Enclosure
Dress and skirts should fall just above the knee or longer.
Shoulder straps must have a minimum width of 1 inch.
Trouser suits are welcome and must be of matching material and colour.
Jumpsuits should fall below the knee.
Hats must be worn, however, a headpiece or hatinator with a minimum base diameter of 4 inches is also acceptable.
Queen Anne Enclosure
A dress or top and skirt, with shoulder or halter neck straps, is acceptable.
Trouser suits are too, as long as they are matching material and colour.
Jumpsuits should fall below the knee.
A hat or headpiece should be worn.
Village Enclosure
A dress or top and skirt, with shoulder or halter neck straps similar to the Queen Anne Enclosure dress code.
Trouser suits are also acceptable, considering they are matching material and colour.
Jumpsuits that fall below the knee are appropriate.
A hat, headpiece OR fascinator can be worn.
What's the ideal dress length for a race day event?
For a race day dress, aim for a length that hits just above the knee or slightly below. This length strikes the perfect balance between elegance and practicality, allowing you to move with ease while maintaining a sophisticated silhouette.
Emma Richardson is a Beauty & Fashion Products Writer for Grazia. She covers shopping, lifestyle, celebs and anything trending.