These chic dresses are the solution to Ascot style and tick every box, from £36

It's no secret that heading to Royal Ascot is just as much about fashion as it is racing. Over the years, the racecourse has become a showcase for stylish dresses, sharp tailoring and show-stopping hats. The Princess of Wales is among the many well-dressed women who have attended the Berkshire event over the years, often stepping out in elegant dresses featuring timeless prints such as polka dots. Who could forget her dotty Alessandra Rich dress back in 2022?

Naturally, with members of the royal family often in attendance, Royal Ascot comes with a strict dress code. While it can seem a little overwhelming at first, we're here to help. Read on for a breakdown of the rules, along with chic outfit inspiration to ensure you arrive race-day ready.

Be aware of Ascot's strict dress code

Regulations on outfits range from skirt lengths and strap widths to hat and headpiece requirements, all of which have their own guidelines.

The official Royal Ascot dress code states that dresses and skirts should be of modest length, defined as falling just above the knee or longer, while straps on dresses and tops should measure at least one inch in width. Trouser suits are welcome, but should be full length and made from matching material and colour. Jackets and pashminas may also be worn.

The dress code also states that strapless styles and spaghetti straps are not permitted in certain enclosures, and midriffs must be covered.

These rules vary from enclosure to enclosure, so we've put together a fuss-free guide to each one.

Royal Enclosure

Dresses and skirts should be of modest length, defined as falling just above the knee or longer. Dresses and tops should have straps measuring at least one inch in width. Jackets and pashminas may be worn, while trouser suits are welcome. Hats should be worn, although a headpiece with a solid base measuring 4in (10cm) or more in diameter is accepted as an alternative.

Queen Anne Enclosure

A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn. Strapless dresses and tops are not permitted. Trousers must be full length, midriffs must be covered and shorts are not permitted.

Village Enclosure

Ladies should dress for a smart occasion. A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn. Strapless dresses and tops are not permitted. Trousers must be full length, while jumpsuits should fall below the knee and adhere to strap regulations. Midriffs must be covered and shorts are not permitted.

Windsor Enclosure

While there is no formal dress code in the Windsor Enclosure, guests are encouraged to dress in smart daywear. Hats, fascinators and headpieces are optional, but many racegoers still embrace the occasion with statement accessories.

Hats

Hats are one of the biggest talking points at Royal Ascot. The official dress code states that hats should be worn in the Royal Enclosure, although a headpiece with a solid base measuring at least 4 inches (10cm) in diameter is accepted as an alternative.

When shopping for a hat, we'd recommend taking your outfit with you, including your shoes, and trying everything on in front of a full-length mirror. This will help you see how the look comes together as a whole.