Royal Ascot is still to this day a week that is steeped in tradition and legacy but also remains at the forefront of contemporary design and style. It was Beau Brummell, perhaps Britain’s first fashion icon, who at the turn of the 19th century dictated the dress for men in the Royal Enclosure. His sense of style is still reflected in Royal Ascot fashions today. It epitomises British Heritage and its dress code must always be adhered, nevertheless, it is always a spectacle in itself to see how visitors to the prestigious event put their own spin on the conventions of Royal Ascot. Read this post to find out what to expect from menswear at this years Royal Ascot.
“A man should look as if he’s bought his clothes with intelligence, put them on with care and then forgotten about them.”
Hardy Amies (The Queens late Couturier)
The Royal Enclosure
It is black or grey morning dress, which means a waistcoat and tie, a black or grey top hat that must not be customised, and black shoes, worn with socks. Hats may be removed within certain areas, such as restaurants, private boxes and clubs.
If your son is aged 10-17 and you wish to bring him (Wednesday to Saturday only) he must either copy your dress code or wear a dark lounge suit with a shirt.
The only exceptions are serving military personnel who are welcome to wear service dress or equivalent, and international visitors who may wear the formal national dress of their country.
The Queen Anne Enclosure
The major visible difference from the Royal Enclosure is that top hats are not required here, although anyone is welcome to follow that enclosure’s dress code and certainly won’t look out of place.
Beyond that, male guests are required to wear a suit with jacket and trousers matching in colour and pattern with a shirt and tie which must be worn at all times. No cravats or bow ties. Socks must be worn with shoes.
The Village Enclosure
This relatively new and vibrant enclosure, the first for 100 years when it opened in 2017, caters for the racegoer who still likes to dress stylishly but would rather opt for a more contemporary sartorial style.
Naturally, gentlemen who wish to adhere to the dress code of the Queen Anne Enclosure are welcome to do so, but as a minimum requirement all male guests require a jacket, full-length trousers, collared shirt and tie. Bow ties and cravats are not allowed and neither are jeans, trainers and shorts.
The Windsor Enclosure
The style guide reflects this more relaxed tone in that guests are encouraged to dress smartly, but there are few restrictions beyond the important one that no replica sports tops or fancy dress are permitted.
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