Picking a stylish outfit is almost as important as picking a winner when you head to the world’s top racecourses to enjoy the action. The newspapers and gossip sites scrutinise what the ladies are wearing to the nth degree, but nailing the style is equally key for me. These are the most important fashion events in the global horse racing calendar:
Royal Ascot
Queen Elizabeth II sets a stylish tone when she leads the Royal Procession each day at this glamorous festival in Berkshire. Her Majesty is fond of wearing bright suits, pearls and floral hats to Britain’s most prestigious and valuable meeting. Royal Ascot takes place over five days and many of the world’s finest racehorses compete for millions of pounds in prize money. Members of the Royal Family rub shoulders with celebrities, dignitaries and well-heeled punters, so it is important to look the part.
Gentlemen must adhere to a strict dress code when they attend Royal Ascot. You are required to wear a full-length suit with a collared shirt and tie. Jackets and trousers should be of matching colour and pattern. A tie should be worn at all times. Bow ties and cravats are not permitted.
Style icons like Prince Charles and David Gandy can provide inspiration for anyone that wants to impress at Royal Ascot. A great look would entail an Oliver Brown Asoct top hat, Brioni black leather Oxford shoes, a Huntsman black featherweave morning coat and matching trousers, and a Huntsman pale blue single breasted morning vest, with a white shirt, grey tie and, of course, a stylish umbrella.
Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe
Powerhouse French fashion labels are out in full force when the rich and the famous descend upon Longchamp for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. It is one of the world’s richest and most celebrated races, attracting an elite field of runners from Europe, the US, Australia and further afield. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent are among the top designers you will see represented at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
“French dressing is less spectacular than Ascot, it’s less extroverted,” said Arc spokesman Julien Pescatore. “The French style is very classic. It’s about elegance, beauty and glamour.” However, an outrageous hat remains a prerequisite for women. “The hat is an essential element of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe,” added Pescatore. “It started in the 1920s as a way to convey some eccentricity, to do some showing-off. Today that might mean a hat with the Eiffel Tower on top.” There is no set dress code for men, but understated chic is the best way to go.
Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby is the preppy fashion event of the year in the United States. All manner of southern belles don beautiful hats and bright dresses to watch the fastest two minutes in sports, but the onus is equally upon the male of the species to dress to impress. Gentlemen should opt for the most vibrant trousers they can find, such as key lime or Bermuda pink chinos. Pair them with a dress shirt and you will fit right in at Churchill Downs.
The jacket brings it all together, and many gents opt for a classic navy three-button blazer for a polished look. Horse bit loafers are all the rage, but remember to wear them sockless. Then top it off with a fedora or bowler hat to complete the look. Tie on a bow tie, slug some bourbon and get ready to watch the biggest race of the year in the US.
Melbourne Cup
The Melbourne Cup is arguably the world’s most popular race, with an estimated global audience of around 750 million. It is a huge deal in Australia, where it is dubbed “the race that stops a nation”. Everyone in the state of Victoria enjoys a public holiday to celebrate Melbourne Cup Day, and more than 90,000 people regularly pack into Flemington Racecourse to watch the best stayers on the planet fight for fame and fortune over a lung-busting 3200m distance. You can find more on the race here, including the prize money, the prestige, the runners and the heritage.
Gentlemen are encouraged to dress boldly on Melbourne Cup Day, but you must follow specific rules to avoid any embarrassing fashion faux pas. Traditionally, men have opted for a tailored black, grey or navy suit, black dress shoes and a crisp white dress suit. However, beige suits have also grown increasingly popular in recent years, while some racegoers are now bold enough to experiment with pop hues and daring designs. Much intrigue comes in the patterns and accessories you choose. A colourful tie and a patterned pocket square can really jazz up your elegant outfit. The official flower for Melbourne Cup Day is a yellow rose, so pin one above your jacket pocket to complete the look.
