Royal Ascot: One month to go
There is just under one month to go until one of the most anticipated race meets in the country. Taking place between the 19th to the 23rd June, Royal Ascot attracts some of the top racehorses, jockeys and trainers around the world. Aside from the world class racing Royal Ascot is also synonymous with sartorial elegance and with up to 300,000 visitors attending the meet you can expect to see a diverse blend of styles combining to create a fashion event in its own right. It’s the combination of fine dining, high fashion and top class racing that make Ascot a unique and unforgettable day out. With a strict formal dress code relevant to the enclosure you attend, it is important to make sure you are dressed appropriately. We have taken our time to study the dress code and select an array of shoes for each enclosure.
Dress Code
Royal Ascot is split into three enclosures: The Royal Enclosure, The Queen Anne Enclosure, The village Enclosure and the Windsor Enclosure. Some rules apply across all the areas, however the royal and Queen Anne enclosure require slightly more attention to detail including specific about the size of headpieces ect. In 2017 Ascot announced that it was to include jumpsuits as an acceptable form of clothing for attendees in every enclosure. Shoe wise there are not any restrictions, but a day at the races can require a lot of time spent on foot exploring the fabulous venue, cheering on your favourite horse and maybe even celebrating a win!
* Image from glamourmagazine.co.uk
The Royal Enclosure
The Ascot website states that:
• Dresses and skirts should be of modest length defined as falling just above the knee or longer.
• Dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or greater.
• Jackets and pashminas may be worn but dresses and tops underneath should still comply with the Royal Enclosure dress code.
• Trouser suits are welcome. They should be of full-length to the ankle and of matching material and colour.
• Jumpsuits are welcome. They should be of full-length to the ankle, with regulations matching that for dresses.
• Hats should be worn however, a headpiece which has a solid base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative to a hat.
Midriffs are to be covered and strapless, off the shoulder, one shoulder, halter necks, Bardot and spaghetti straps are all not permitted, even if you are wearing a jacket or pashmina over the top. Fascinators are all not permitted in the Royal Enclosure.
*Dress code from www.ascot.co.uk
*Photograph glamour.co.uk
The On Trend Kitten Heel
Been invited to the Royal Enclosure? Take inspiration from years gone by and opt for a vintage look. We love to explore images of stylish racing crowds past, particularly the looks of the young Queen and Princess Margaret. 50's style dresses with their flattering necklines, cinched waists and calf brushing skirts are eternally stylish and look elegant without effort. Pair this style of dress with the trend of the season, the kitten heel, and you have a look that is both elegant and fashionable. A simple slingback in a colour pop suede such as our 'Pratolina' shoe brightens up a neutral dress or is the finishing touch to a bright one. Similarly 'Belladonna' in its versatile navy and soft pink hues and its oversized knot front adds detail to an otherwise pared back outfit.
The Queen Anne Enclosure
'A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times. Strapless or sheer strap dresses and tops are not permitted. Please note our definition of strapless includes off the shoulder, bardot style and one shoulder dresses. Trouser suits and jumpsuits must be full-length and worn with a top that adheres to the guidelines above. Midriffs must be covered. Shorts are not permitted.'
*Dress code from www.ascot.co.uk
*Photograph glamour.co.uk
The Classic Court
For a formal occasion nothing beats the elegant simplicity of a classic court shoe. Whether it has a high or a low heel, has a soft round toe or a sharp point, a court shoe always finishes of an outfit beautifully. A simple court shoes lets your outfit do all the talking. Wearing bright colours or patterns? Tie the look together with a neutral metallic or natural hues, or enhance it was a colour pop suede! With our heels we focus on the cut and balance of the shoe so although they may look high, they are incredibly comfortable taking you from morning to night effortlessly.
The Village and Windsor enclosures
Ladies within the Village Enclosure are encouraged to dress in a manner as befits a formal occasion and ladies are kindly asked to take note of the following: A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times. Strapless or sheer strap dresses and tops are not permitted. Please note our definition of strapless includes off the shoulder, bardot style and one shoulder dresses. Trouser suits and jumpsuits must be full-length and worn with a top that adheres to the guidelines above. Midriffs must be covered. Shorts are not permitted.
Ladies within the Windsor Enclosure are requested to dress in a manner as befits a formal occasion. It is recommended that ladies wear smart attire with a hat or fascinator.
*Dress code from www.ascot.co.uk
*Photograph glamour.co.uk
Block Heels and Flats
The Village and Windsor enclosures are always buzzing with boutique restaurants, alfresco dining, lots and champagne and cocktails bars and an eclectic mix of music that takes you through into the evening. With so much to see and enjoy, comfort is as important as style! We recommend a block or stacked heel, or even opt for a smart flat shoe for a modern sophisticated appeal. Our Rosa and Lavanda heels are both sprinkled with sparkle, softening the block heel and giving it extra glamour for the special occasion. Both stunning in design and incredibly comfortable they are the perfect heel for a day spent lapping up the buzzing atmosphere of the Village and Windsor enclosures. A flat shoe ensures all day comfort, while still looking ever so elegant. Ravello with its pretty laces and hand woven body adds a masculine edge to a feminine look without being overpowering. Our Arancia sling with its fringing, studs and two tone leather is a fun way to accessorise a jumpsuit or mid length dress.
Shop Local
With only a month to go if your outfit isn't already sorted it is time to start shopping! Cheltenham is a fantastic place to shop for a special outfit with its many boutiques, designer and high street shops. A selection of fabulous independent cafes and eateries allows you a joyful respite from shopping for your look, while its fabulous beauty and hair salons allow you to finesse your look in luxurious surroundings.
Why not start your day and visit the Suffolks and Montpellier to visit its independent boutiques such as Bodega Womanswear or Atelier Nineteen if you are looking for something bespoke. Taking your partner shopping? James of Montpellier has a fabulous selection of fine mens clothing, of which you are sure to find an Ascot worthy outfit for your man.
And don't forget the little details. Pop to Laura Leigh Hair and Beauty to have all your beauty treatments done under one glamorous roof! If you need a blow dry before you set out to Ascot, Laura Leigh's is the place to go.
To watch the Official Ascot in association with Cunard video on what to wear follow the link below:
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.