Royal Ascot is an event like no other. It’s steeped in tradition and attracts over 300,000 people over the course of the five-day summer festival.

The Royal Ascot dress code does vary depending on which enclosure you have a ticket for though, so we’ve created a helpful guide on what to wear if you’re lucky enough to have tickets to Royal Ascot.


Credit: Ascot Racecourse – https://www.youtube.com/embed/686h7jwBDVg

ASCOT ROYAL ENCLOSURE DRESS CODE

The Royal Enclosure is deemed the most prestigious of the four enclosures at Royal Ascot. It’s an area mainly reserved for the rich and the famous, and of course, royalty, meaning a strict dress code must be adhered to.

Ladies

  • Dresses and skirts should fall just above the knee or longer.
  • Garments must have straps that are no less than one inch in breadth. Styles such as strapless, off-the-shoulder, halter neck, and spaghetti straps are not permitted, nor are garments with translucent straps or sleeves.
  • Exposing the midsection is not allowed.
  • Jackets and pashminas are permitted.
  • Trouser suits are also permitted. However, they should be of matching material and colour, and full length to the ankle.
  • Jumpsuits which fall below the knee are allowed and should again, have straps no thinner than an inch.
  • Hats should be worn, but a headpiece which has a solid base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative. Fascinators, however, will not be allowed.

Gentlemen

The dress code for gentlemen within the Royal Enclosure is simple and traditional but just as important as the ladies in terms of style.

  • Morning attire in black or grey, inclusive of a vest and necktie (excluding cravats).
  • A top hat in black or grey, without any custom adornments such as ribbons or bands.
  • Shoes should always be black, and paired with socks.
  • It is permissible to forego hats in certain spaces such as dining venues, private boxes, and clubs. The same applies to outdoor seating in the Royal Enclosure Gardens, where hats are not mandatory.

Horse Racing guest

QUEEN ANNE ENCLOSURE DRESS CODE

The Queen Anne Enclosure is named after Queen Anne herself and is full of class and glamour. Situated close to the Parade Ring and the Winners’ Enclosure, it features champagne bars and sun terraces for people to enjoy the racing.

The Queen Anne Enclosure dress code is less formal than the Royal Enclosure, however, smart clothing must be worn.

Ladies

  • A headpiece must be worn by ladies at all times during the occasion. This could be either a hat or a fascinator. 
  • Dresses and tops that are strapless or have sheer designs are not permitted. This encompasses off-the-shoulder, Bardot, and one-shoulder necklines.
  • If racegoers would prefer to wear trouser suits, they must be full length, and jumpsuits should fall below the knee. The same neckline rules apply.
  • Midriffs must not be on show and shorts are not allowed.

Gentlemen

  • Men should wear a suit. Jackets and trousers should be of matching colour and pattern.
  • A tie should be worn at all times but no cravats or bow ties.
  • Socks are a must and should cover the ankle.
  • Top hats can be worn but are not essential.
  • Jeans, chinos, and trainers are not permitted.

Village Enclosure Dress Code

The Village Enclosure was introduced in 2017 – the first enclosure to open there in over 100 years! It’s not as formal as the Royal or Queen Anne enclosures, therefore, guests tend to opt for a more contemporary look.

Ladies

There is actually no formal Village Enclosure dress code, however, people are still encouraged to dress smart. So if you’re into fashion, it’s a great opportunity to try something new and different!

  • A hat, headpiece, or fascinator should be worn at all times. Smaller ones are recommended.
  • Strapless and sheer dresses and tops are not permitted, which means the neckline should not be off-the-shoulder, Bardot, or one-shoulder.
  • Full-length trouser suits and jumpsuits which fall below the knee are preferred.
  • Midriffs must not be on show.
  • Shorts are not permitted.
  • The Village Enclosure is a grassed area so think about footwear! Wedges and block heels are advised rather than stilettos.

Gentlemen

  • Full-length trousers and jacket
  • Collared shirt
  • A tie should be worn at all times but bow ties or cravats are permitted.
  • Socks should be worn and they should cover the ankle.
  • Jeans and trainers are not allowed.

Windsor Enclosure Dress Code

As with the Village Enclosure, the Royal Ascot dress code in the Windsor Enclosure is much more relaxed. However, racegoers should still continue to wear smart daywear and dress to impress if they wish, and when it comes to hats – go for it and go big!

Ladies

  • A hat or fascinator is recommended.
  • Sport shorts or shirts are not allowed.
  • Novelty, branded or promotional clothing as well as fancy dress are not permitted.

Gentlemen

  • A jacket, collared shirt, and full-length trousers are recommended.
  • As with the ladies, no sports shorts or shirts are allowed.

The Royal Ascot is one of the most prestigious racing events in Britain, drawing some of the finest racehorses in the world competing for millions of pounds. Dressing appropriately, therefore, couldn’t be more important. The dress code for the Royal Ascot does vary based on where you stand, which is why we’ve created this guide so that you can shop strategically.