Royal Ascot Formal Dress Code.

Fashion has always been a feature at Royal Ascot and spotting the most extrovert fashions on show creates as much attention as the horse racing itself. The dress code enforced in 2012 suggests organisers felt some race-goers were becoming rather to risqué.

Charles Barnett, Chief Executive at Ascot Racecourse said "Royal Ascot is an event where people like to dress up and they feel a bit let down when those around them don't." 

Personally I couldn't agree more although some of the rules are a little strict. 

Below is an in-depth guide to what you should and should not be wearing in each area. 

ROYAL ENCLOSURE

At the heart of Royal Ascot is the Royal Enclosure which, like the tradition of the Royal Procession dates back to the early 1800's and the rein of King George IV. Within this area as is to be expected is the strictest of all the dress codes. Morning Dress for Men and Formal Day wear for Ladies applies.

Ladies are kindly asked to note the following:-

• Dresses and Skirts should be of a modest length defined as falling just about the knee or longer- No Thighs on show

Royal Ascot Dress Code 2013 

• Dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or greater - Strapless, off the shoulder, halter neck and spaghetti straps are not permitted.

Royal Ascot Dress Code 2013

• Midriffs must be covered. 

Royal Ascot Dress Code 2013 - No Midriffs left exposed. 

• Jackets and pashminas may be worn, but the dresses and tops underneath should still comply with the Royal Enclosure dress code. 

Royal Ascot Dress Code 2013

• Trouser suits are welcome. They should be full length and of matching material and colour.

Royal Ascot Dress Code 2013

• Hats should be worn, a headpiece which has a base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative to a hat. - Fascinators are no longer permitted; neither are headpieces which do not have a base covering a sufficient area of the head (4 inches / 10cm)

Royal Ascot Dress Code 2013

GENTLEMEN

Gentlemen are kindly reminded that it is a requirement to wear black or grey morning dress, which must include.

• A waistcoat and tie (no cravats)

Royal Ascot Dress Code 2013

• A black or grey top hat

The customisation of top hats (with, for example, coloured ribbons or bands) is not permitted in the Royal Enclosure.

• A gentleman may remove his hat within a restaurant, a private box, a private club or that facility’s terrace, balcony or garden. Hats may also be removed within any enclosed external seating area within the Royal Enclosure Garden. 

• Black shoes

GIRLS

• Girls (aged 10-16) should dress for a formal occasion. Smart summer dresses are suggested. Hats, headpieces and fascinators may be worn but are not compulsory.

BOYS

• Boys (aged 10-16) should dress in accordance with the gentlemen’s dress code, or may wear a dark-coloured lounge suit with a shirt and tie (no hat required).

OVERSEAS VISITORS

Overseas visitors are welcome to wear the formal National Dress of their country or Service Dress

SERVING MILITARY PERSONNEL

Serving military personnel are welcome to wear Service Dress or equivalent.

GRANDSTAND ADMISSION

Grandstand Admission racegoers have the choice to follow the dress code for the Grandstand or that of the Royal Enclosure.

LADIES

Ladies within the main Grandstand Enclosure are encouraged to dress in a manner as befits a formal occasion.

Ladies are kindly asked to take particular note of the following:

• A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times.

• Strapless or sheer strap dresses and tops are not permitted.

• Trousers must be full length and worn with a top that adheres to the guidelines above (i.e. strapless or sheer strap tops are not permitted).

• Jackets and pashminas may be worn but dresses and tops underneath should still comply with the Grandstand Admission dress code.

• Midriffs must be covered.

• Shorts are not permitted.

GENTLEMEN

Gentlemen are required to wear a suit with a shirt and tie.

GIRLS

Girls (17 or under) should be dressed for a formal occasion. Smart summer dresses are suggested. Hats, headpieces and fascinators may be worn but are not compulsory.

BOYS

Boys aged (13-17) should wear a suit or jacket with a shirt and a tie. Younger boys (12 or under) should be dressed smartly but are not required to wear a jacket or tie.

SILVER RING & HEATH ENCLOSURE

Although no formal dress code applies in the Silver Ring Enclosure and Heath Enclosure, racegoers are encouraged to wear smart clothes.

Please note that bare chests are not permitted at any time.

FANCY DRESS

In addition to the dress code advice, please note that fancy dress, novelty and branded or promotional clothing is not allowed within the racecourse during Royal Ascot. There may be instances where a degree of discretion is required in determining compliance with the Royal Ascot dress code. In such instances, reasonable judgement will be exercised.

Most importantly I hope you have a wonderful Royal Ascot and take home plenty of amazing memories for the future.