Horse racing is one of the most socially popular events on the calendar, with millions typically passing through the gates at some of the most famous courses on the planet. Huge events such as the Kentucky Derby and Royal Ascot remain among the most popular, with all visitors to the track dressed up in their finest clothes to ensure that they look their best for the superstars in action.
However, there have been changes to dress codes in recent years, with the Jockey Club in the United Kingdom announcing that they will be adopting more relaxed rules to make the sport more accessible and inclusive. You don’t need to know what is a place bet in horse racing to enjoy the sport, but a proper dress code is a must.
Despite this, the sport is still one of the most fashionable events on the calendar, with many using it as a perfect opportunity to get dressed up in their best clothes due to it being second nature. But, what are some of the style trends that should be followed for some of the biggest race days on the calendar?
The Kentucky Derby is one of the standout racing events on the global calendar, and it has become a massive fashion event in recent years. Visitors are typically encouraged to express themselves when it comes to their outfits, with many taking this on board when putting together colourful outfits for a day at Churchill Downs.
Men are normally wearing bright coloured shirts with a jacket to match, while trousers and smart shoes are popular selections. As well as this, hats are seen as trend that is followed at Churchill Downs for Derby day, and this is especially the case for female visitors when they put together their outfits for the day.
Like male visitors, women will also look to stand out from the crowd when putting their outfit together, with many going for fluorescent pink or yellow outfits. Female Racegoers will typically wear either summer dresses or jumpsuits, the weather in Kentucky normally playing a big role in the decision.
There is few more stylish horse racing events on the calendar than the five-day Royal Ascot meet. With royalty typically in attendance, it is one of the strictest when it comes to the dress codes in the different enclosures. The Queen Anne Enclosure is one of the most strictest at the course, with ladies being required to wear their hat or fascinator at all times.
Meanwhile, women aren’t allowed to wear strapless tops or dresses, which includes off-the-shoulder outfits. For those wearing trousers, they should be full length to comply with the guidelines. Male visitors will also need to follow strict regulations to ensure access to the Queen Anne Enclosure. Hats are once again a must, while jackets and trousers should be matched in colour, and socks that cover the ankle are also essential.
As with female visitors, there are also a number of clothing items that aren’t allowed, including jeans, shorts, trainers, and chinos. However, the dress codes vary depending on the enclosure, with the Village section being the most informal.
Unlike the Kentucky Derby and Royal Ascot, the dress code at the Cheltenham Festival differs entirely due to the fact that it is staged annually at the end of the British winter.
The Festival remains one of the most fashionable events on the global racing schedule, but it is essential for all visitors to dress for the weather, with temperatures in the Cotswolds typically reaching low digits. Male visitors always dress for the weather during the jumps season, meaning coats and hats are frequently worn. However, regular Racegoers will typically wear tweed, but this is a personal preference.
For those attending the meet as a corporate guest, suits are most appropriate for the hospitality boxes during the Cheltenham Festival. While many female visitors to Cheltenham still dress as though they are going to a summer meet, it is always encouraged to ensure that you are prepared for the cold weather. Therefore, popular clothing options for female visitors include wearing fur coats, scarves, and jumpsuits. As well as this, many women will also opt to wear comfy shoes for winter meetings, as rain could make walking in heels a potential issue.
Before putting together your outfit for any day at the racing, it is important to consider a number of factors. Among those include the weather, as this could have a direct impact on whether you will be cold, which could impact the enjoyment of your day.
An important factor to consider is the enclosure that you will be in, as you may be required to dress more formally if you have paid more for your ticket. It is worth remembering that any outfit that is deemed outside of these guidelines could see a visitor refused entry.
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