With the arrival of the summer social season, it’s time to prepare for various events like horse racing, polo matches, and outdoor weddings. Although the tweeds of Cheltenham may feel like just yesterday, the outfits for the races are once again in focus.

Understanding the dress code at Royal Ascot can be challenging, as each area has its unique guidelines. Nevertheless, several common requirements persist: dresses or skirts should be knee-length or longer, shoulder straps must be at least 2.5cm wide, matching trouser suits are permissible for women, and hats are a must. Ignoring these rules could result in denial of entry or disapproving glances from other attendees.

While maintaining adherence to the dress code is crucial, there’s ample opportunity for personal style and flair. To aid you in navigating your fashion choices, we present a thoughtful guide to summer racing fashion.

Elegant Race Day Dresses

Zimmermann Linen Floral Midi Shirt Dress

This lightweight linen dress from Zimmermann offers a timeless shirt silhouette perfect for warm weather. Its vibrant floral print lets you explore a variety of accessory options—either go minimal with a matching baby blue bag or accentuate it using the pastel pink or deep red shades featured in the dress. Priced at £795, Zimmermann at Harrods.

Stella McCartney Gathered Silk Crepon Midi Dress

This stunning dress from Stella McCartney boasts an open back, adding a touch of allure suitable for Ascot, as long as the neckline remains compliant. The high neckline keeps the silhouette balanced, and pairing it with a boater hat and wedges makes it ideal for garden parties. Available for £1,990 at Mytheresa.

Roksanda Nura Bow-Detail Taffeta Midi Dress

Brighten up your race day with the cheerful taffeta midi dress from Roksanda. Keep your accessories to a minimum and let the impressive bow detail steal the show. Priced at £2,795 at Harrods.

Chic Two-Piece Outfits

Nomadissem Cropped Dume Jacket and Tweed Dume Trousers

For a tailored approach, consider a stylish trouser suit. Crafted from luxurious soft tweed, this retro-inspired boxy jacket and flared trouser set from Nomadissem offers a delightfully nostalgic look when paired with pearls and a silk neckerchief. Jacket, £1,790; Trousers, £1,350, Nomadissem at Harrods.

Edeline Lee Polka-Dot Pussybow Blouse and Belted Juno Wide-Leg Trousers

This matching polka-dot set by Edeline Lee offers a maxi dress look, providing the comfort of wide-leg trousers paired with deep inverted pleats that create an elegant silhouette. Blouse, £495; Trousers, £785, Edeline Lee at Harrods.

Carolina Herrera Belted Wool-Blend Crepe Blazer and Wide-Leg Pants

Carolina Herrera’s trouser suit stands out for its versatility, allowing you to mix and match the bow-adorned blazer and wide-leg pants. The detachable bow adds customization for more casual events. Blazer, £2,140; Trousers, £1,245, Carolina Herrera at Net-a-Porter.

Stylish Headpieces

Emily-London Ribbon-Detail Hat

Elegance often lies in simplicity, and this wide-brimmed hat is a classic choice for race day at £1,450 from Emily-London.

Vivien Sheriff Daiquiri Hat Fascinator

Newly popular hatinators blend the styling of fascinators and hats seamlessly. This design from Vivien Sheriff, adorned with a sinamay mesh trim and a bouquet of orchids, retails at £1,050 at Harrods.

Maison Michel Bibi Rose Veiled Hat Fascinator

For a more understated yet impactful look, consider this captivating red rose fascinator from Maison Michel Bibi’s exclusive capsule collection designed for Royal Ascot 2025, priced at £960.

Footwear for Race Day

Gucci Women’s Horsebit Pump

Comfort is crucial, particularly for outdoor events. Block heels offer stability, making them a better choice than stilettos, which tend to sink into the grass. Gucci’s stylish pumps featuring a horsebit buckle are perfect for equestrian occasions, priced at £755.

Chloe Isla Wedge Espadrilles

Wedge espadrilles are not only fashionable but functional, making them ideal for activities like divot stomping at polo matches, available for £690 from Chloe.

Loeffler Randall Dahlia Faux Leather-Trimmed Plissé-Organza Sandals

With pretty bows and signature plissé-organza, Loeffler Randall sandals are the perfect fit for summer festivities, whether for weddings, garden parties, or race day, costing £320 at Net-a-Porter.

Accessories to Complement Your Look

Tusting Clara Handbag

Tusting, a family-owned bag business, is known for its stylish designs. A top-handle handbag in a light hue is perfect for a formal yet daytime look, priced at £445.

Gucci Printed Silk Scarf

Gucci’s luxurious silk scarf can enhance any outfit, whether tied around a handbag handle, added to a blazer pocket, or worn as a neck accessory, available for £430.

Bee Goddess Secret Garden Peacock Earrings

Bee Goddess’s Secret Garden collection features nature-inspired designs combining diamonds with sapphires and peridot gemstones. These artistic earrings are available for £14,700 at Harrods.