ROYAL ASCOT STYLE GUIDE 2023

ROYAL ASCOT DRESS CODE 2023

Here at Simply Devine, we love helping our customers to accessorise their Royal Ascot outfits with our beautiful hats and hatinators – but you do have to be vey careful and ensure that you stick to the very strict dress code.  And do be mindful of which zone you have bought tickets, because there is a very specific code for each enclosure.

We have ladies’ hats, fascinators and hatinators in stock which comply with all of the formal dress codes at Royal Ascot.  We also have a collection of men’s top hats by Christy’s of London. We were recently delighted to supply a beautiful Melusine top hat for a customer, but we also stock wool and fur top hats in grey or black.

The dress code at Royal Ascot reflects the history and tradition of Royal Ascot.  At the turn of the 19^th Century, the dress code for men was determined by Beau Brummell, a leading fashion icon at the time.  That sense of elegance and style continues to this day, making Royal Ascot such a special occasion.

THE ROYAL ENCLOSURE

The Royal Enclosure has the strictest code, meaning that formal daywear is a requirement with dresses and skirts of “modest length” ie: just above the knee or longer.  Dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or greater while strapless, off the shoulder, Bardot, halter neck and spaghetti straps are not permitted, neither is a bare midriff. Dresses and tops with sheer straps and sleeves are also not permitted, and shorts are banned.

Jackets and pashminas may be worn but tops and dresses underneath should still comply with the Royal Enclosure dress code. Trouser suits are acceptable, but must be full-length to the ankle and of matching material and colour. Jumpsuits are welcome too and should fall below the knee, with regulations matching that for dresses and tops.

Hats or hatinators MUST be worn however, the headpiece should have a solid base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter. Fascinators are NOT ALLOWED.

For men the requirement is to wear black, grey, or navy morning dress which must include a waistcoat and tie (no cravats or bow ties), a black or grey top hat, and black shoes worn with socks. The customisation of top hats (with, for example, coloured ribbons or bands) is not permitted in the Royal Enclosure. Novelty waistcoats and ties are banned, and only discreet patterns and those of a patriotic nature (for example, a national flag) are acceptable. Bow ties and cravats are not permitted.

THE QUEEN ANNE ENCLOSURE

The dress code for women is the same as the Royal Enclosure, however, fascinators MAY be worn.

Men are required to wear a full-length suit with a collared shirt and tie, so jackets and trousers should be of matching colour and pattern.  Socks must be worn and should cover the ankle.  Jeans, chinos and trainers are not permitted.

THE VILLAGE ENCLOSURE

A similar code applies as in the Queen Anne Enclosure for women. However, men may wear jackets and trousers rather than a suit,  and a bow tie/cravat is acceptable.

THE WINDSOR ENCLOSURE

Whilst there is no official dress code for the Windsor Enclosure, men and women are encouraged to dress in smart daywear. It is recommended that women wear smart clothes with a hat or fascinator and men wear jacket, collared shirt and full-length trousers.

Further details can be found on the Royal ascot website here.