The joke is on me! Up to a month ago I had no idea this even exists.
Apparently Royal Ascot’s dress code is a big deal so I will start from the beginning.
What is Ascot?
It is a British Racecourse located in Ascot, Berkshire, England. It is one of the leading racecourses in the United Kingdom, hosting 9 of Britain’s 32 annual Group 1 horse races.
The course is approximately six miles away from the Windsor Castle so it enjoys close association with the British Royal Family.
Why is it a big deal?
The Royal Ascot is the centerpiece of Ascot’s year, dating back to 1711 when it was founded by Queen Anne.
Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the British Royal Family, such as the Prince of Wale, attend Royal Ascot every year. The members arrive each day in a horse-drawn carriage.
It is a huge event in the British social calendar, and so it has its own very strict dress code. Very often the attendees’ clothing coverage exceeds the actual racing.
DRESS CODE
LADIES
Formal daywear is a REQUIREMENT defined as follows:
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Dresses and skirt should be just above the knee or longer.
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Dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or greater. Strapless, off the shoulder, halter neck and spaghetti straps are not permitted.
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Jackets and pashminas may be worn but dresses and tops underneath should still comply with the Royal Enclosure dress code.
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Trouser suits are welcome. They should be of full length and of matching material and colour.
- For the first time jumpsuits are welcome. They should be of full-length to the ankle, with regulations matching that for dresses.
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Hats should be worn; however a headpiece which has a solid base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative to a hat.
