One of the great things about Summer fashion is that you can often wear the same outfits to a variety of special occasions; given the warmer weather, the Summertime will often see an abundance of christenings, weddings and other events that all require formalwear and black tie attire.
However, when it comes to the races, fashion trends are constantly changing and evolving, making it much trickier to know what is appropriate and on-trend for race day. With weddings, it’s slightly easier because there will often be a theme or specific guidance from the bride…but at the races, you’ve got to work it all out for yourself!
Although there has been a long history of strict dress codes at race events across the UK, Ascot Racecourse being renowned for enforcing these rigorous rules, the approach to racewear has now become much for modern; this means that you have much more freedom to wear what you want pick an outfit that makes you feel confident.
Race dress codes may have become more laid back over the years, but this certainly doesn’t mean that you’ll be able to waltz into Cheltenham Festival in a pair of blue jeans and a crop top; finding a race day outfit that complies with the dress code, keeps up with the current style guides and also suits your personal style is definitely a challenge. Nonetheless, we’ve outlined a few top tips and style suggestions to make sure that you find the right outfit for you.
Don’t Be Too Swayed By The Trends
Before delving into ideas on what to wear to the races this Summer, we just want to remind you that you should never let trends deter you from your own personal style. Everyone has different tastes that allow them to express themselves and you shouldn’t feel you have to change yourself to conform to the status quo.
Trends are designed to give you inspiration and help your personal style to evolve with new concepts and ideas you may not have thought of before. It also gives you an opportunity to find a style that suits you if you feel that you haven’t found it yet; of course, race day fashion will always be somewhat restricted by dress codes, but no one can design a dress code to restrict your personality, so be loud and proud of who you are and don’t be afraid to wear something that others might not.
All Things Bright And Beautiful
Although creams and monochrome outfits have been a staple of races fashion for years, this season has seen a preference for outfits that bring a little more colour. 2022 is certainly a year designed for the bold and the daring; so, if you have an audacious outfit that’s been sitting in your bottom draw for the last few years, no is the time to whip it out and live on the edge.
Neon is a colour that has often been associated with 90s raves and the London nightclub scene, but now it’s become a staple for occasion-wear and formal dos. A colour that was once used for tight latex crop tops and mini-skirts has now transcended to a world of linen dresses and handbags from Alexander McQueen.
If you don’t feel comfortable wearing an outfit that is bright or neon, then perhaps consider keeping your outfit low-key and allow your accessories to pop.
Sometimes, less is more, and if you are someone who prefers neutral tones in your formalwear, then don’t feel the need to compromise your personal style; Styling boldly-coloured accessories against outfits that is more toned down can often make more of an impact anyhow. Our Adesso Monica Sandal would be the perfect choice for anyone who wants to dip their toe into the water with vivid colours; it would also be a lovely choice for race day because although it is quite casual, it brings that element of fun and quirkiness to a rather opulent ensemble.
Forget The Frocks & Jump Into A Jumpsuit
Most of us have a preference on whether we prefer dresses and skirts or trousers and culottes, but you have to admit that everyone loves a jumpsuit. Jumpsuits have become an extremely popular choice for ladies on race day; perhaps this is because it doesn’t compromise on the comfort and style factor.
When wearing a jumpsuit, you have the freedom to move around more easily and enjoy yourself, whilst also portraying that cool, sophisticated look that gives you a real edge. After so many years of women having to wear frocks to formal occasions, it is rather refreshing and empowering to see all these ladies having the freedom to choose an outfit that feels more authentic to them.
Of course, a jumpsuit isn’t for everyone and maybe you will always be a dressy girl at heart, but it’s comforting to know that you can mix it up once in a while if you feel so inclined.
If you feel that your attire is lacking a little pazazz, you might be drawn to our fresh mint shoulder strap handbag; this beautifully elegant design is ideal for those looking for something practical and classy with mint green and cream colour blocking and a gorgeous gold tassel that just gives it that extra wow factor. If you have opted for a black or cream jumpsuit, this is certainly the bag that would pull the whole look together in a subtle, yet understated manner.
Ramp Up The Ruffles & Fluff Out The Feathers
Last but not least, you should certainly consider taking your ruffles and feathers to the next level. It’s time to talk hats & fascinators. Everyone who has been to the races knows that it would not be the fashion show that it is without the wealth of race day hats.
Generally, we like to advise that you go all out on your hat or fascinator of choice because it is the one accessory that you don’t tend to wear on a day-to-day basis, so while you’ve got the opportunity, you may as well make the most of it.
Our handmade fascinators and hats are designed to suit every style and taste, offering a multitude of colours, feathers, floral designs and more. We don’t like to pick favourites, but having said that, we can’t help but admire the delicate craftsmanship of the silver lilac sinamay hat with silk rose and an ostrich feather. It truly is something to be admired and adored, so if you want to be the centre of attention in a crowd of fashionistas, then this is the hat for you.
At the end of the day, only you know what clothing and accessories truly reflects your character, so make sure you curate outfits that make you look and feel fabulous. We hope you’ve got some useful tips for your next big race event, and please do pop into our little boutique or shop online to find the best race accessories suited to you.