We’ve already discussed with you how the glamour-fuelled, nostalgic fashion from Cheltenham Ladies’ Day inspired us, and can’t wait to see what the ladies of Aintree, Ascot and the rest will bring.
Most of the sixty plus racecourses in Great Britain hold their own Ladies Day or Night so even if you haven’t bagged tickets for Ascot this year then you’re sure to find one near you. Why not use our Race Day Guide to help you choose – it’s got all the information about the top ten courses in the UK you’ll need including dates, ticket prices and insider information.
We realise that insider information when talking about Ladies’ Day largely comprises of one thing. The dress. What are you going to wear? We wanted to get some key tips from people who know a thing or two about fashion so asked some of our favourite bloggers to share their top race day style tips with you.
The Dress
As Lula Belle from Glamour in the County explains “a lady needs to impress on race day.” And it’s true; there are certain boxes your Ladies Day dress needs to tick.
It has to make a statement. Races outfits are designed to stand out from the crowd and get noticed. Step outside your comfort zone in a fiery Cayenne or Celosia Orange shade – these are key colours for SS14.
At the same time, smart sophistication is a must. The dress can’t be too short, ideally below the knee, and a flattering cut. Otherwise, you’ve free reign on the style. Trends to watch out for are springtime florals, sweet pinks and playful checks.
Top Tip: With makeup, less is more; let your outfit do the talking. Think dusty rose eyeshadow and a touch of blusher. Kristin from Highland Fashionista suggests “Keep your makeup minimalistic and natural; you are going to be in natural light all day and a heavy-handed application can look too ‘done.’”
Fabulous Footwear
You’ve found the dress, now the footwear. Bear in mind that the races are an all day event, so dress accordingly.
Why not replace the conventional court with a platform or wedge? They frequented the SS14 catwalk back in September and are a must-have for spring. Florals will look especially stunning this season.
Andrea from Cous Cous and Cork Wedges agrees. She said “I’ve spent quite a few days at racecourses in the past and my top tip would be to wear wedged shoes or sandals so that you don’t sink into the turf!”
Speaking from experience, Deborah from Bang On Style, told us “Make sure your races footwear is fabulous and comfy – you’ll be on your feet all day!” You need to find shoes that roll style and comfort all into one.
Hat or not hat?
For our lovely bloggers, hats are essential. Michelle from My Fashionable 40s says “Nothing can beat a jaunty hat for going to the races! I would go for felt hat at this time of year in a fedora or trilby style to make a statement!”
Ensure that the hat complements your dress – colour clashes can be risky at the races. Donna’s advice from I Won’t Wear Sludge Brown is to opt for lighter shades. “Dark brimmed hats cast shadows across the face so choose a lighter colour which will be much more flattering in photographs.”
Top Tip: Josephine from Chic At Any Age has a quick reminder: “When wearing a hat to the races make sure it is secured firmly either with a hat pin or an elastic loop hidden under your hair at the back. You do not want to be chasing it down the racetrack.”
These are our top fashion fixes for the races. Let us know your race day stories.