11 beautiful Ascot-appropriate dresses for a day at the races

One of the biggest British sporting events of the year, Royal Ascot has become as much about what you wear as it is the races.

Attended by royalty, celebrities and paparazzi, there's arguably nowhere more important to be sartorially savvy, and guests didn't disappoint with their outfits this year, many of which were from high street brands and some are still available to shop if you're looking for occasionwear inspiration. 

The Ascot dress code includes strict rules on hem lengths, shoulder straps and headpieces, and while everyone is encouraged to dress up for the occasion, each enclosure has slightly different rules. 

Royal Ascot may now be over for 2025, but there are still upcoming race days this year, from the QIPCO British Champions Day on 18th October to Cheltenham's The November Meeting from 14th-16th of that month.

Royal Enclosure dress code

- Dresses and skirts should be a modest length, falling no shorter than just above the knee.

- Dresses and tops must have straps that are a minimum width of one inch or more. 

- Jackets and pashminas may be worn, but tops and dresses underneath must still comply with the dress code.

- Trouser suits are permitted but should be full-length and of matching material and colours.

- Jumpsuits are also permitted and have the same regulations as dresses.

- Hats must be worn. However, a headpiece with a minimum base of four inches (10cm) is acceptable.

© Dave Benett

Queen Anne Enclosure & Village Enclosure dress code

• A dress or top and skirt, with shoulder or halter neck straps (lace and chiffon fabrics are permitted, no minimum length)

• A trouser suit of matching material and colour

• A jumpsuit that falls below the knee and complies with the shoulder strap requirements

• A hat, headpiece or fascinator

© Getty Images

Windsor Enclosure dress code

- Attendees are encouraged to dress in smart daywear with a hat or fascinator, but there is no official dress code for the Windsor Enclosure.

Was there a theme for Ascot 2025?

The Royal Ascot 2025 Lookbook continued the shift towards inspiring racegoers to be a little more inventive with their ensemble, moving the focus towards outfits that represent their individual style. 

Designer Daniel Fletcher, the Royal Ascot Creative Director for 2025, said: "I wanted to push the creative boundaries even further. To celebrate individuality, honour tradition, and encourage people to feel seen in what they wear."

Highlights included this season's move back towards polka dots, as well as cool tones of matcha green, and Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Mocca Mousse. Sustainability continued to be at the forefront, with guests encouraged to consider looking in charity shops, boutiques, vintage emporiums and resale websites for their outfits.

Royal Ascot may be over for 2025, but if you still have a race day coming up I've found the most stylish pieces available to shop online. I also got in touch with Daniel for all of his expert styling tips.

The best race day dresses to shop for 2025