Royal Ascot has become as much about what you wear as it is the races, so make sure you've brushed up on the rules before choosing your all-important outfit. Attended by royalty, celebrities and paparazzi, there's arguably nowhere more important to be sartorially savvy.
The strict dress code includes rules on hem lengths, shoulder straps and headpieces, and while everyone is encouraged to dress up for the occasion, each enclosure has slightly different rules.
Royal Enclosure dress code
- Dresses and skirts should be a modest length, falling no shorter than just above the knee.
- Dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or more.
- Strapless, off-the-shoulder, halterneck and spaghetti straps are not permitted.
- Dresses and tops with sheer straps and sleeves are also not permitted.
- Jackets and pashminas may be worn, but tops and dresses underneath should still comply with the dress code.
- Midriffs must be covered.
- Trouser suits are permitted but should be full-length and of matching material and colours.
- Jumpsuits are also permitted and have the same regulations as dresses.
- Hats should be worn; however, a headpiece that has a solid base of four inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative. Fascinators are not permitted.
Queen Anne Enclosure dress code
- A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times.
- Strapless, off-the-shoulder, Bardot and one-shoulder dresses and tops are not permitted.
- Dresses and tops with sheer straps and sleeves are also not permitted.
- Midriffs must be covered.
- Trouser suits are permitted but should be full-length. Shorts are not permitted.
- Jumpsuits are also permitted and have the same regulations as dresses.
Village Enclosure dress code
- A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times. These are encouraged to be of a smaller size.
- Strapless, off-the-shoulder, Bardot and one-shoulder dresses and tops are not permitted.
- Midriffs must be covered.
- Trouser suits are permitted but should be full-length. Shorts are not permitted.
- Jumpsuits are also permitted and have the same regulations as dresses.
- Block heels or wedges are encouraged over stilettos.
Windsor Enclosure dress code
- Attendees are encouraged to dress in smart daywear with a hat or fascinator, but there is no official dress code for the Windsor Enclosure.
Is there a theme for Ascot 2023?
The Royal Ascot 2023 Look Book has now been released and while the dress code remains unchanged, it hopes to inspire racegoers to be a little more inventive with their ensembles, moving the focus towards outfits that represent their individual style.
Sustainability continues to be at the forefront and guests are encouraged to consider looking in charity shops, boutiques, vintage emporiums and resale websites for their outfits.
Looking online for a dress that's appropriate for the races? We've done the work for you and searched for the most stylish pieces - with some affordable options - to shop now.
Shop the best dresses to wear to the races 2023
Reformation Gloriana Silk Dress
From the official Royal Ascot Look Book comes the beautiful Gloriana silk dress from Reformation. It features a midi length, long sleeves, a sweetheart neckline and smocking at the back for added stretch.
LK Bennett Lourdes Silk-Blend Devoré Dress
LK Bennett's Royal Ascot collection has an edit of dresses guaranteed to comply with the strict dress codes. The floral Lourdes dress is made from luxurious silk devoré and features a French 18th century meadow scene created using a chine weaving technique for a watercolour effect.
Self Portrait Tiered Embroidered Tulle Dress
This dreamy dress is by Princess Kate favourite Self Portrait. It's made from delicate lace and chiffon in the brand's signature fairytale style. With its sheer sleeves, it's lovely for the Windsor enclosure.
& Other Storie Double-Puff Sleeve Dress
With its puff sleeves, square neckline and bold, colourful blooms, & Other Stories' floral midi dress is the perfect high street piece to wear to Ascot.
Reformation Winslow Dress
Reformation's popular Winslow dress is comfortable and modest while also featuring a flattering high slight.
Saloni Isa Tiered Ruffled Midi Dress
Saloni's Isa dress is made from silk-chiffon that's patterned with delicate blooms and arranged in asymmetric, ruffled tiers.
River Island Polka Dot Midi Dress
Emulate Princess Kate in polka dots with this satin midi dress from River Island.
Nobody's Child Lilac Coco Midi Dress
Nobody's Child's gorgeous lilac midi dress features cascading ruffles and a subtle centre slit.
ME+EM Silk Yellow Maxi Dress
We love ME+EM's silk yellow maxi dress styled with metallic accessories.
ASOS EDITION Neon Floral Embellished Dress
ASOS Edition does some amazing occasionwear, and this embroidered midi dress comes in the most stunning floral print.
Phase Eight Phoebe Ruffle Dress
With its ruffled silhouette, belted detail and bold red hue, Phase Eight's Phoebe dress was made to stand out. Wear it with a clutch and strappy heeled sandals.
Zimmermann Floral-Print Wrap Dress
Cut from lightweight linen, this floral print asymmetric dress by Zimmermann is the perfect modest piece for summer.
Rixo Diya Dress
We're obsessed with the vintage print of Rixo's Diya midi dress. You'll be reaching for this all summer.
LK Bennett Frink Silk Organza Dress
LK Bennett's Frink dress is made from luxurious silk organza. It has a slip base, a white embroidered scalloped neckline and short puff sleeves.
Hobbs Renee Silk Floral Dress
With its modest cut and vintage-inspired floral print, Hobbs' Renee silk midi dress was made for a day at the races.
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