Horse racing is no small business. And certainly, if you place your bets right, you could make a great win. But it’s never really just about the races; the fashion on show is almost as important as the races themselves (some may say even more so!). Anyone who’s anyone will be dressed to the nines, and the races are also famous for networking opportunities, no matter what industry you’re in. The bottom line is – the races are a seriously stylish affair where a good first impression is always important.
Knowing how to stand out in a sea of colourful dresses and masterful millinery is no easy task. Elegance that exudes confidence is the ideal. With all that in mind, let’s take a look at different styles that are shining this year for the spring races.
Millinery masterpieces
For the ladies, it goes without saying that you should wear something on your head. It’s an exciting opportunity, as it’s one of very few events in the calendar where you can wear a hat or fascinator. This is where a lot of creativity comes into play. The headpiece can be a lot of fun, and it could mean anything from a modest beige cotton Panama hat with a single leather strap around it, to a more elegant black wide-brimmed hat complete with a ribbon (something you might imagine Audrey Hepburn wearing), or a flowery ribbon design with the flare and outline of a flame. Veils are totally en vogue too, to add an aura of mystique and elegant beauty. Tall hats work to accentuate stature and standing, but beware not to come off as too showy, which is easy to do. Floral designs and vintage lace headdresses can also be popular. If you’re looking for something that’s trending at the moment, consider wearing a crown.
Anything can work as long as it embodies class and flows well within the context of the dress you’re wearing. It should complement the ensemble and bring it together, not stand out as a gauche accessory. As well as suiting the shape of your face and your build, your headpiece has to accommodate how your hair will sit – not a small consideration.
Dresses galore
Here is another area in which you can really go wild. Everything from a classic black and white set-up will work, although depending on the event, don’t feel you have to be too subdued. During spring events, there are typically floral motifs to go along with really punchy bright colours. This year we’ll see pastel colours of all shades, along with metallic hues like gold, copper, or aqua-bronze. Everything from form-fitting to flowing, airy one-piece attire is acceptable. Choosing the right outfit is more a matter of bringing the whole package together to form a cohesive style that fits your body type and uniquely expresses elegance.
Don’t succumb to the pressure
There’s nothing worse than feeling like you have to wear something that will elicit a thousand compliments. Really, it comes down to knowing how to outfit your body in a way that makes you feel both comfortable and confident, while understanding the type of attire people wear at events like the spring races. There’s a lot of leeway here, so make yourself up in a way that you love, and that really expresses who you are!
Sartorial etiquette
Bear in mind this isn’t a night out. This is an elegant, high-class event where midriffs aren’t usually exposed and dresses should not be too revealing. That does by no means equate to conservative attire only, but it’s important to remember that you won’t be wearing what you’d wear to a nightclub. As a guideline, dresses should be at least at knee length and straps coming over the shoulder should be at least an inch thick. For men, it means jeans are no-go.
For men – a classic approach
For men, a classic, sophisticated look will be perfect this year. The safest approach might consist of a navy blue blazer with matching suit pants, a white long-sleeved collared shirt, and brown or black shoes. Your tie is where you can add a bit of character – whether that’s a classic plain, striped, or spotted tie that brings the whole outfit together, or something that makes a bit more of a statement, like a brightly coloured or floral tie. You could also slip a matching pocket square into your breast pocket.
Remember that tailored, form-fitting suits make all the difference to your look, and crisp, freshly ironed clothes are a must.
The best accessories are friends and laughter
Although there is tradition and etiquette when it comes to horse racing, the ultimate goal of the occasion is to have fun with your loved ones. The spring races are right in the middle of a beautiful season, so enjoy the great weather and hit the races with your best friends as well as your best outfit.
