If you’re lucky enough to be heading to Royal Ascot this year (18–22 June 2024) but are yet to decide on your outfit, do not fear. H&H’s here to help with the ultimate guide to the Royal Ascot dress code for each enclosure — from the length of dresses suitable for Royal Ascot, to the width of straps and what young racegoers should be wearing, too.
Do you need to wear a hat? Can you opt for a fascinator? How about a jumpsuit? Does he need a tie? We’ve got all your questions answered.
What (and what not) to wear at Royal Ascot
Each of the Royal Ascot enclosures has slightly different rules about what you can and can’t wear, so if you have your Royal Ascot tickets and know which one you’re in, jump down to your enclosure.
The Royal Enclosure dress code
The Royal Enclosure has the strictest dress code. Guests are encouraged to embrace the elegance and fashion with their own individual style, providing it is in keeping with the dress code.
Ladies
- Headwear must be worn. Hats are preferred, however, a headpiece that has a solid base of four inches (10cm) or more in diameter is allowed as an alternative. This selection of hats for Royal Ascot are all compliant.
- Dresses and skirts should be of “modest length”, which is defined as falling just above the knee or longer, and midriffs should not be on show. Straps should be at least one inch thick – strapless, off-the-shoulder and halter-neck styles are not permitted. Avoid sheer straps or sleeves, too. Check this selection of Royal Ascot dresses.
- Jackets and pashminas are allowed, however, the dress underneath still needs to comply with the Royal Enclosure dress code.
- Trouser suits are welcome but should be full length and both the material and colour should match.
- Jumpsuits are allowed, but should fall below the knee and match the same strap regulations as dresses.
Gentlemen
- Morning dress – in either black, navy or grey – must be worn. This includes a waistcoat and tie — no cravats or bow ties.
- Top hats should be worn (black or grey) but customisation, such as coloured ribbon, is not allowed.
- Novelty waistcoats and ties are not permitted, but discreet patterns and those of a patriotic nature (for example, a national flag) are acceptable.
- Shoes must be black and socks must cover the ankle.
Children
- Girls (aged 10–17) should dress in accordance with the ladies’ dress code, however, they can wear a fascinator as an alternative to a hat — there is no size restriction.
- Boys (aged 10–17) should dress in accordance with the gentlemen’s dress code or wear a dark-coloured lounge suit with a shirt and tie.
Queen Anne Enclosure dress code
While not as strict as in the Royal Enclosure, the dress code in the Queen Anne Enclosure is formal and should be followed with confidence.
Ladies
- Ladies are encouraged to dress in a manner appropriate for a formal occasion.
- Hats, headpieces or fascinators should be worn at all times.
- Dresses or tops with an open-back style are permitted as long as they aren’t strapless, off-the-shoulder or have a Bardot neckline. Midriffs must be covered and sheer straps are not permitted. There is no minimum length.
- Trouser suits and jumpsuits must fall below the knee and must adhere with the dress neckline and strap regulations. Trouser suits must also be of matching colour and material. Shorts of any kind are not permitted.
Gentlemen
- Suits must be full length and worn with a collared shirt. Jackets and trousers should be of matching colour and pattern. Jeans and chinos are not permitted.
- Ties should be worn at all times – bow ties, cravats and neckerchiefs are not permitted.
- Socks must be worn and cover the ankle.
- Shoes should be smart and trainers of any style are not permitted.
Children
- Girls (under 18) should be dressed for a formal occasion (smart summer dresses, for example). Hats, headpieces or a fascinator may be worn but are not compulsory.
- Boys (aged 10–17) should wear a suit or jacket with a shirt and a tie.
- Boys (under 10) should be dressed smartly but are not required to wear a jacket or tie.
Village Enclosure dress code
Although less formal than the Royal and Queen Anne Enclosures, the Village Enclosure still requires that you dress in a manner than befits a formal occasion.
Ladies
- Ladies are encouraged to dress in a manner appropriate for a formal occasion.
- Hats, headpieces or fascinators should be worn at all times. Smaller hats or fascinators are recommended in this enclosure.
- Dresses or tops should not be strapless, off-the-shoulder, one-shoulder or have a Bardot neckline. Midriffs must be covered and sheer straps are not permitted. There is no minimum length.
- Trouser suits must be full length, of matching colour and material, and must adhere with the dress neckline and strap regulations. Jumpsuits should fall below the knee. Shorts of any kind are not permitted.
- Wedges and block heels are recommended over stilettos as this enclosure is a grassed area.
Gentlemen
- Jackets are required.
- Trousers must be full length and worn with a collared shirt. Jeans are not permitted.
- Ties must be worn at all times – bow ties and cravats are accepted.
- Socks must be worn and cover the ankle.
- Shoes should be smart and trainers of any style are not permitted.
Children
- Girls (under 18) should be dressed for a formal occasion (smart summer dresses, for example). Hats, headpieces or a fascinator may be worn but are not compulsory.
- Boys (aged 10–17) should wear a suit or jacket with a shirt and tie.
- Boys (under 10) should be dressed smartly but are not required to wear a jacket or tie.
Windsor Enclosure dress code
There is no formal dress code in this enclosure, but smart daywear is encouraged. Hats and fascinators are recommended for ladies, while it’s recommended that gentlemen wear a jacket, collared shirt and full-length trousers.
You might also like:
Heading to Royal Ascot and still not got a hat? Here are 28 options to complete your outfit
Our pick of dresses for Royal Ascot – all still in stock
Off to the races at Ascot? Here’s where to stay
How to watch Royal Ascot live for free online and on TV
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