We’re nearly at the start line for the UK’s biggest horseracing events of 2025.
While races take place throughout the year, the first big meet in the calendar is Cheltenham, which will take place from March 11 - 14. Barely a month later, it’s off to the Grand National in April (13 - 15) before the Epsom Derby and Royal Ascot in June (this year Ascot will run from June 17 - 21).
Promising a day of fun, competition and fashion, the events are now as famed for the line-up of enviable looks as they are for the sport itself. A-listers and titans of industry rub shoulders with royalty with women’s outfits firmly in the paparazzi lens - especially on grand events such as Ladies Day.
It means that, even if you’re going as a regular punter, the stakes to go all-out with your outfit have never been higher.
If you’re feeling daunted at the prospect, you needn’t be. Choosing an outfit for race day is a lot like wedding guest dressing. You want to stand out but not overpower, so nothing too attention grabbing (that’s what your hat or fascinator is for).
Florals are highly encouraged and you won’t go wrong with a classic stripe or polka dot. If in doubt, lean in to quiet luxury - midi lengths and stateswomanly options are solid ground, and you’ll appreciate anything with freedom of movement - whether for jumping up and down because your horse has come in or you’re making a break for the exit to beat the crowds home.
A shirt dress works as a casual option while something that covers the shoulders or arms will come in handy if the weather takes a turn - and if you’ve spent any time in the UK, you’ll know what the odds of that are.
In 2024, LK Bennett was the official fashion label for Royal Ascot, offering a capsule collection that adhered to the event’s famously strict dress code. Rules include no spaghetti straps, knee-length hemlines and hats for racegoers in the Royal Enclosure. While these guidelines largely apply to the higher tier enclosures, they’re a good rule of thumb to follow regardless.
Choose the right piece and it will be a sartorial workhorse that you can continue to wear it long after the winner has been declared. If you’re not sure where to turn, we’ve rounded up the front-runner in this year’s competition to be best dressed at the races.
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FARM Rio Cream Romantic Lightness Short Sleeve Midi Dress
When the weather hots up, this cutout floral dress is just the thing to reach for. Beautifully patterned with floral prints, the European Flax keeps it breathable while the square neck and gently puffed sleeves hark back to vintage stylings.
Buy now £360.00, FARM Rio
Rixo Clementina Silk Dress
A casual dress that will still stand up to the scrutiny of race day dress codes, Rixo’s Clementina will prove itself to be the sartorial workhorse of your wardrobe this summer. The crepe de chine feels gorgeous against skin while the ruffle trims and vintage-looking floral print give a hyper-femme vibe.
Buy now £345.00, Rixo
Reformation Veria Silk Dress
Espadrilles, straw accessories, a giant My Fair Lady-style hat: this look practically dresses itself. Star of the show? Reformation’s Veria dress, made from sumptuous silk with a fitted halterneck bodice and a loose relaxed skirt.
Buy now £448.00, Reformation
Monsoon Livia Satin Cowl Halter Midi Dress Green
Coordinate with the race course in this sage green midi which comes with a cowl neck for an elegant twist. The flattering drape of the skirt and light satin fabric means it’ll soon become the odds-on favourite of your special occasion wardrobe.
Buy now £110.00, Monsoon
LK Bennett Naomi Green & Italian Straw Swirl Print Crepe Jumpsuit
Don’t fancy a frock this year? A jumpsuit will look just as good, especially one that offers a nice drape thanks to the heavy crepe fabric.
The abstract swirl print nods towards 70s style, a feature you should dial up with retro sunglasses and raffia accessories to contrast against the prim buttons and high neckline.
Buy now £349.00, LK Bennett
Karen Millen Tailored Linen Wrap Blazer Midi Dress
Boardroom glamour made racecourse-ready, this Karen Millen suit dress has a delectable 80s feel to it. Pair it with a boater-style hat to turn heads in the enclosure.
Buy now £137.40, Karen Millen
ALAÏA Ruched jersey midi dress
Who know how your luck will play out come race day, but Alaia’s midi will ensure you leave minted no matter the outcome. The ruched design is made with body-skimming jersey that feels comfortable all day. Wear with extravagant headgear - this piece can carry it off.
Buy now £2850.00, Net A Porter
Rixo Meera Chiffon Gown
Honour the romance of the occasion with red roses in the form of this dress from Rixo, set on the floaty Meera Chiffon Gown. Florals aren’t for you? Fear not, there are six other vibrant patterns.
Buy now £525.00, Rixo
Monsoon Sicily Polka Dot Fit & Flare Midi Dress Blue
Monsoon’s bestselling Sicily dress is back after selling out last year. This time, the piece is in a navy blue hue with white polkas, but if you’re feeling spicy, there’s a leopard print version too. Oh, and it has pockets too.
Buy now £140.00, Monsoon
SELF-PORTRAIT Belted embellished bouclé midi dress
The A-list, royals and upper class are all spotted at race day every year. Channel your inner stateswoman with this boucle number, inspired by vintage style. It comes with an open collar buttoned top that turns into a pencil skirt with a thigh high split. One to pair with all-white accessories for true Jackie-O vibes.
Buy now £420.00, Net A Porter
