Quite simply, there’s nowhere like Royal Ascot. Even if you don’t win anything on the races themselves, participation is paramount – and so is etiquette, especially at the races where behaviour, dress code, and manners are scrutinised. So, if you’re one of the lucky ones to attend this theatrical event, your role must be played masterfully. Read on for your guide to mastering Ascot’s notoriously tricky dress code – and learn a history lesson or two along the way.
The Essential Hat
The secret to mastering the dress code? That coveted hat, which is the main object of study and a status symbol at Ascot. Ladies in the royal enclosure are expected to wear different models each day, but the most colourful day is Thursday – Ladies’ Day – when you must amaze everyone.
When Queen Elizabeth II was alive, the goal was to try to impress the Queen herself, whose personal hat collection is said to have numbered around five thousand pieces.
At 2pm, the royal family arrive from Windsor Castle in open carriages after a ceremonial lunch. Until 1:50pm, you can place bets on the colour of the Queen’s hat (her predecessor’s favourites were blue, pink, and yellow). Take note: a hat is not the same as a small fascinator or headpiece with a base less than 10 centimetres in diameter, which are deemed unacceptable in the royal enclosure
Milliners Mumble currently LOVE for this year! Edwina Ibbotson and Alexandra Harper.
Dress Code
Remember, there’s Ascot for picnicking, and then there’s Royal Ascot, with strict dress code invitations to the Royal Enclosure. In all enclosures, bare midriffs, deep necklines, off-shoulder dresses or halter necks are outlawed. The hat should always be tilted to one side – and, traditionally, specifically to the right side. Why? It’s, of course, about men and their swords. The sword was worn on the left hip, so they led the lady on their right, and thus the hat on the lady had to be on the side that didn’t interfere with the gentleman.
The dress code at Ascot is so strict that there are stewards whose sole job is just to enforce it. They have been known to carry measuring tapes to ensure dresses are of an appropriate length and that hats meet the size requirements.
'Ascot perfect' dresses our Mumble team are loving this season are from; Suzannah, Safiyaa and Laura Green. Paired with Emmy London not only the most comfortable heels for al all day at the races. but they can be personalised with stunning shoe clip accessories, for that ultimate personal touch or added sparkle.
Men’s Dress Code
Men should wear only closed shoes, and women are advised against high heels. Regardless of which ticket you get, remember that there is only one road to Ascot, and everyone, including the royal cortege, will travel it. If you plan to drive to the racecourse, leave early, and purchase parking permits online.
Since 2019, Royal Ascot has embraced a more inclusive approach, allowing men to dress in women’s attire and vice versa, as long as they follow the specific guidelines for their chosen attire. This includes wearing appropriate hats and maintaining the required formality of the event. Under no circumstances should one appear without a top hat in the building and on the stands: you could be asked to leave the races.
Historical Anecdotes
One of the most famous phrases associated with Royal Ascot is “The Bowler Hat Mutiny.” This refers to an event in the late 1950s when the Ascot stewards almost went on strike over the introduction of a dress code requiring them to wear bowler hats. This dress code change was met with strong resistance, and the trustees were forced into providing pay rises to prevent the mutiny.
Another iconic phrase is related to the historic “Black Ascot” of 1910, when racegoers dressed in mourning attire following the death of King Edward VII. The striking scene of attendees in black, save for some white flowers or strings of pearls, left a memorable impression on that year’s event.
Until 1955, divorced individuals were barred from the royal enclosure, which changed with the relaxation of divorce laws in the UK. Only starting in 2017 were jumpsuits allowed in the women’s dress code.
To conclude
Royal Ascot is more than a racing event; it’s a cultural phenomenon that combines the best of British tradition with contemporary flair. It’s a place where history meets modernity, where fashion statements are made, and where lifelong memories are created.
Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, the magic of Ascot is undeniable. So, embrace the spirit of the event, follow the dress code, and prepare yourself for a truly unforgettable experience.
Remember, every detail counts, from the tilt of your hat to the style of your shoes. Dress to impress, mind your manners, and above all, enjoy every moment and remember the words of J.M. Barrie, the author of Peter Pan, “make your own magic, live your own fair
Article by: Baroness Olga Roh, (Fashion & Culture Contributing Editor.)