What Should Men Wear To The Races?

With the sun shining and the weather beginning to warm up, many of us are beginning to make our summer plans, and a day at the races is always a fun day out. When it comes to horse racing, fashion is always a key part of the event, but finding the right suit can be a challenge.

So, no matter whether you are going to the races for the first time or you are looking to update your look for 2023, we have taken a closer look at what to wear…

What is the dress code for a day at the races?

Spending a day at the races is your chance to dress up and express your personality. Each event has its own rules that you will need to follow (and we’ve looked at some of the biggest events further down), but in general smart attire and bold looks are encouraged.

Your suit is the key aspect of your entire ensemble. A tailored suit will give you that perfect fit, flattering your physique and helping you to feel confident and comfortable. You will also want to consider the material. A lighter weight suit can help to keep you cool on those hot summer days.

The racetrack is a fun and exciting place, so it is a great time to experiment with more unique colours. However, avoid outlandish patterns or colours, which can look informal and create the wrong impression.

Specific dress codes

The right three-piece suit will look great for almost any day at the races. Certain events do have specific rules, with some of the biggest events on the calendar including:

The Derby at Epsom Downs

The Derby is a wonderful event, and the main Grandstand enclosure does not have an official dress code, simply asking guests to come “dressed to feel their best”. Inappropriate fancy dress and sports clothing are not allowed.

Guests attending the Queen Elizabeth II Stand on Derby Day are expected to wear a full morning dress and a top hat.

Goodwood

Goodwood hosts multiple events throughout the summer, and it was one of the first racecourses to offer a relaxed dress code. Men attending the Richmond Enclosure or part of the Hospitality Suite are expected to wear a jacket and tie, while those in the Gordon & Lennox Enclosures are encouraged to dress in a smart and elegant fashion.

Royal Ascot

Royal Ascot is one of the biggest race events on the calendar. Guests in the Royal Enclosure must wear a black, grey or navy morning suit, including a waistcoat, top hat and black shoes. Those guests in the Queen Anne Enclosure will need to wear a matching full-length suit with a collared shirt and tie. The Village Enclosure is a little more relaxed, allowing guests to wear coloured full-length suits, although a tie will need to be worn at all times.

Looking to get race day ready?

If you are looking to get the perfect suit for a day at the races, then our team here at Astares in on hand to help you. We pride ourselves on offering exceptional modern suits for every occasion, ensuring we can always find the perfect look.

Want to find out more? Check out the range today or come and visit our store!