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.
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