Words by leading fashion, beauty and lifestyle blogger Vicky Lee.
One of the most prestigious events in the summer racing calendar, Royal Ascot is known as much for its hoofed protagonists as its impeccable sartorial style. It is the perfect opportunity to dress up in your finery, enjoy a fun day out and brush shoulders with members of the British Royal Family.
Needless to say, the Royal Enclosure is the place where everyone craves to be – it’s also the area where the dress code is the strictest. There’s even a team of professional at hand to ensure that no rulebreakers gain access to the VIP area! However, a strict dress code doesn’t have to be synonymous with stiff, matronly style.
The key is to go for timeless pieces that blend the best of sartorial tradition with subtle nudges to modern trends.
If you’re still unsure, here are my favourite style tricks and outfit ideas to be the best-dressed woman in the Ascot Royal Enclosure:
1. Woman In White
Dress by Sanyukta Shrestha
Hat by William Chambers Millinery
Bag by Cecilia Ma
Gone are the days when white was reserved only for brides walking down the isles on their special day. Pure and classic, a white dress is the hallmark of summertime. Pick a number with a traditional Victorian silhouette, long sleeves and an open back – it’s a contrasting combination that accentuates your tan and makes you stand out from the crowd!
2. A Lace Affair
Dress by Sophia Kah
Hat by William Chambers Millinery
Shoes by Ganor Dominic
When in doubt, wear lace. The perfect mix of sophistication and romanticism, a lace dress is a classic that’s never off-trend. This green full-length piece features see-through panels on the upper and lower areas that add a sexy touch to the look. Accessorize it with a contrasting shoulder bag and wide-brimmed hat (it’ll protect your skin from the aging effects of the sun, too!).
3. Black & White
Dress by Sophia Kah
Hat by William Chambers Millinery
Bag by Cecilia Ma
Shoes by Ganor Dominic
The dress code in the Ascot Royal Enclosure doesn’t allow skirts that fall above the knee. A sheer long skirt on top of a miniskirt is the perfect way to inject a sexy vibe into your outfit without falling foul of the rules. To amp up the chic factor, choose a black piece and paire it with a bag and hat with white accents. It’s a timeless combination that never goes out of style.
4. Black Romance
Dress by Kelly Simpkin
Hat by Monique Lee
Shoes by Ganor Dominic
If you’re feeling daring, opt for a backless dress with a deep V-neck. This lacy piece features black panels on the decollete to hide your modesty and enhance your feature. Its long length provides the perfect balance to the exposed flash on top. Finish the look with a wide-brimmed black hat decorated with a bow. It’s the most quintessential of British accessories!
Venue by Beckhampton Stables
Sponsored by Highclere Racing Horse
