When it comes to Royal Ascot, it is most definitely one of the social events of the summer season! Held every year in June, it is an event which is now heralded as a major fashion event in its own right. Whenever you think of this event elegance comes to mind. The dress code is usually far stricter than at most other types of event, for instance in 2018 they have even made socks a requirement for gentlemen! Also for ladies, specific necklines, such as the ‘Bardot’ are banned from the Royal Enclosure. For those of a slightly rebellious nature you will no doubt be pleased to hear that women’s shoes, heels and sandals are not covered by these ‘rules’!
Dress code for ladies in the Royal Enclosure For ladies, formal daywear is a requirement, as follows: • Dresses and skirts of a modest length, falling just above the knee or longer! • Tops and dresses to have straps of at least one inch. • Pashminas and jackets can be worn, however any tops and dresses underneath them to comply with the Royal Enclosure dress code. • Trouser suits can be worn. These should be full length down to the ankle and made from matching material of the same colour. • Jumpsuits can be worn. These are to be full-length down to the ankle, with the same matching regulations as for dresses. • Hats ought to be worn. A headpiece with a solid base of at least 4 inches (10cm) in diameter is deemed acceptable as an alternative to wearing a hat.
Ladies are asked to note the following: • Strapless, off the shoulder, halter necks or spaghetti straps are not allowed. • Midriffs must not be shown. • Fascinators are not allowed. Headpieces without a solid base covering a sufficient area of the head, at least 4 inches/10cm, are also banned. Dress code for gentlemen in the Royal Enclosure It is a requirement for gentlemen to wear either a black or grey morning dress. This should consist of the following: • Waistcoat and tie, however a cravat is not acceptable. • Black or grey top hat. • Black shoes should be worn with socks! Gentlemen may remove their top hat within restaurant areas, private boxes, private clubs or such a facility’s terrace, balcony or garden area. Hats can be removed within any enclosed external seating area within the Royal Enclosure Garden itself. Modification of top hats (for example, with coloured ribbons or bands) is not allowed in the Royal Enclosure. Dress code for children within the Royal Enclosure Children may only attend on Friday and/or Saturday. Girls from the age of 10-17 should dress in full accordance with the Ladies’ dress code with one proviso - they can wear a headpiece or fascinator instead of a hat, with no size restriction. Boys from the age of 10-17 should dress in accordance with the gentlemen’s dress code or, alternatively, they can wear a dark-coloured lounge suit with a shirt. Dress code for overseas visitors within the Royal Enclosure Overseas visitors are most welcome to wear the formal National Dress of their country or any Service Dress. Dress code for serving military personnel in the Royal Enclosure Serving military personnel can wear Service Dress or an equivalent. When it comes to women’s court shoes, sandals, high heels and accessories, here are some top tips. 1) Handbags More often than not, an outfit will be easily wrecked by a battered bag that is usually used for work. Handbags don’t need to cost a small fortune. XYLONDON offer an eye catching array of dressy clutch bags perfect for this type of occasion and starting at little more than £10. Keep your bag elegant, fun and try as much as possible to limit the size, as you do not want to feel like you are carrying around a suitcase all day! 2) Hats Try to purchase a hat that you can wear for more than one occasion, so that you do not mind splashing out on this special purchase. If you do want your new hat to serve you well on many occasions, then try to purchase a neutral colour, which could work well with many outfits. Jazz your hat up with a coloured embellishment to match your specific outfit. Also, if you are petite be mindful of the fact that you should avoid huge brimmed hats.
3) Women’s Shoes and Heels A classic closed toe court shoe can look extremely stylish and also protect those tootsies. Bear in mind there are going to be many thousands of people at an event such as Royal Ascot and, as the day wears on, and those glasses of champagne are a flowing, it would not be surprising if someone accidentally stepped on your toes! XYLONDON offers a wide selection of ladies shoe styles from court shoes and high heels to comfy flat sandals that can be worn as the day progresses. Remember to dress accordingly for the weather! If the outfit you have chosen to wear depends on a scorching day, don’t forget to still be prepared for the good old English weather and the possible unexpected downpour. Make sure to pack a pretty umbrella which matches your outfit and possibly a warm cover up too!
