Haven't got your outfit? Prepare to stun.
With Royal Ascot and other summer events quickly approaching, a short guide to the dress code — and the rules worth sticking to.
The Royal Enclosure
The strictest rules — but easy to dress for if you know them. Shoulder straps must be at least 2.5cm (1 inch) wide. Skirts, dresses and jumpsuits must fall to the knee or below. A hat or substantial headpiece is required, with a brim of at least 10cm (4 inches).
The Village & Queen Anne Enclosures
A bit more freedom here, though modesty is still paramount. No minimum on skirt length or strap width — strappy and halter styles are welcomed, as are jumpsuits. Hats or fascinators still required.
The Windsor Enclosure
Much more relaxed — expect easy summer dressing. Hats, headpieces and fascinators are encouraged but not compulsory.
And the hat
It's not every day you get to wear a hat, so have some fun. Our Lorraine wide-brimmed straw hat clears the 10cm brim rule for the Royal Enclosure — a frayed edge and black petersham ribbon, ready to team with almost anything. Or start with a simple straw and attach faux flowers: needle and thread (or a glue gun) at the ready.
And the dress
Sleeveless, square-neck, mid-calf — like the one pictured — works across all four enclosures. Start with our occasion dresses, midi dresses and tea dresses. Pockets are a plus.
