When is Royal Ascot 2024?
Falling on Tuesday 18th to Saturday 22nd June, the Royal Ascot races are known for the presence of high-profiles, lively atmospheres and of course, exceptional horses and jockeys. From trackside views in the Windsor enclosure to soaking up the luxurious VIP experience in the Royal enclosure, there’s something for everyone at Ascot.
Attracting over 300,000 guests, the crowds are known for their modest yet contemporary fashion. Sporting blooming fascinators and vibrant hues, guests must adhere to rules and restrictions when it comes to Ascot fashion.
Discover the dress codes for your enclosure and advice from our fashion team…
Think trackside. Soaking up the atmosphere. The Windsor enclosure creates an Ascot experience like no other with DJ sets, food stalls and picnicking lawns for those to socialise over bubbles, bets and whispers of best dressed.
Although there’s no official dress code for this enclosure, it is still encouraged for guests to dress smartly. We recommend midi and maxi dresses, formal two pieces and casual tailoring. And a hat, headpiece or fascinator is always a welcomed accompaniment.
A village. A mini festival. Call it what you will; The Village enclosure stands alone on the other side of the racecourse – meaning the panoramic views include the Grandstand as the breathtaking backdrop. Surrounded by food stalls, cocktail bars and lively music, the Village is the place to be for a unique experience.
The Village enclosure requires guests to wear a dress, or top and skirt, with shoulder or halter neck straps. Coordinating trouser suits and jumpsuits are welcomed, but must fall below the knee, and must comply with the required strap options. A hat, headpiece or fascinator is also required.
From fine dining to lively trackside views, the Queen Anne enclosure encapsulates everything Ascot has to offer. The only public enclosure that provides views of the Bandstand, Grandstand and Parade Ring, it’s ideal for the guests who want the full experience.
The Queen Anne enclosure holds the same requirements as the Village enclosure, but we recommend dressing up to emulate the elevated atmosphere. Think satin fabrics and floral prints over tailored midi dresses, tea dresses and sundresses.
Invite only: This enclosure is strictly VIP, historically held for family, guests and monarchs. The most prestige experience Ascot offers, guests have access to exclusive fine dining, private viewing lawns and designated vantage points around the Parade Ring and Grandstand.
To emulate the elevated experience (and coordinate with the exclusive crowds), the dress code for the Royal enclosure is the strictest of them all. If you opt for an occasion dress or a satin skirt, it must fall just above the knee or longer, while tops and dresses must also comply with shoulder straps that are a minimum width of 2.5cm. If you’d prefer trousers, coordinating trouser suits and jumpsuits that fall below the knee are also acceptable.
When it comes to accessorising, jackets and pashminas may be styled as layers, as long as tops and dresses worn beneath comply. Hats must be worn, however headpieces and hatinators may be worn as a close alternative if the base diameter is at least 10cm wide.
Ascot is historically known for its modest fashion, leaving some restrictions that fall over all enclosures.
Bardot, strapless and one-shoulder dresses and tops are not permitted, alongside sheer fabrics and visible stomachs. Outfits should also not include novelty patterns or fabrics (including brands, slogans or phrases).
As keen racegoers themselves, our fashion team use their first-hand experience being trackside to curate advice on what to really wear…
If you’ve seen the likes of My Wardrobe HQ, you’ll know that dress hire is the new black. If you want to keep your fashion game strong with minimal commitment (read: cost), we’ve got you. Browse our curated collection of Monsoon dresses for rent with My Wardrobe HQ. With everything from statement ruffle dresses, green midi dresses and fab florals, we’ve got something for every Ascot enclosure dress code.
The easiest option (and styles you most likely already own in your collection) are midi-length dresses with tailored silhouettes. Coordinating suits, jumpsuits and skirted two-pieces are also advised, as long as they cover the stomach and fall below the knee.
Nod to Ladies Day with styles that exude femininity. Opt for floral prints, colourful hues and feminine accents with lace overlays, ruffles, and tailored waists.
The UK weather… Be prepared for the summer breeze with dress coats, blazers, and pashminas. Light jackets are ideal for those in the Windsor and Village enclosures with a more relaxed dress code.
Apart from the required fascinators and headpieces, there’s various ways to accessorise your race day attire. Opt for understated cross-body and clutch bags to accompany your dress, whilst finding the perfect pair of court shoes (that won’t leave your heels dug in the lawn) is essential.
