For many, there are few more enjoyable days on the social calendar than a day at the races.
No matter whether the day out is for major events on the schedule such as the Kentucky Derby or Breeders’ Cup, or whether it is for a small meeting at tracks such as Hawthorne and Del Mar, fashion remains a high priority for all those in attendance.
Looking the part is half of the challenge when going to the racing, and many will assess what they will wear before considering the horses that they could expect to see on the TwinSpires website.
But, why is fashion such a big theme when it comes to horse racing events throughout the year?
Sport of Kings
Horse racing is often referred to as the ‘Sport of Kings’, and fashion has been a theme surrounding the action on track since it grew in prominence. Early signs of fashion being a trademark of racing events can be dated back to the 1950s.
During this period, attending the racing would demonstrate one’s status, and the outfits that visitors would wear would illustrate their high standing in society.
Furthermore, it was during this period that strict dress codes would be introduced, encouraging visitors to dress respectfully. Some of the strictest dress codes remain in place to this day. The title of the ‘Sport of Kings’ also revolves around the close relationship between the sport and members of the Royal Family.
Queen Elizabeth was a regular visitor to Royal Ascot during her reign, and Her Majesty was also able to celebrate major victories on track, including Estimate’s iconic win in the Ascot Gold Cup in 2013.
Strict Codes Remain in Tact
One of the strictest meetings in terms of fashion remains Royal Ascot, where visitors can often be turned away on the door if they don’t follow the dress code.
Royal Ascot’s strict measures in place ensure that it remains one of the most iconic on the sporting schedule. However, those thinking of attending will typically need to prepare their outfits months in advance.
The Royal Enclosure sees the strictest measures in place. Ladies must ensure that their dresses/skirts fall below the knee, while strapless and sheer style dresses are not permitted.
Gentlemen will also need to follow strict measures to ensure that they are able to enter. Most important, men must wear a black or grey top hat throughout the course. Black dress shoes are also essential, while socks must be worn.
Opportunity to Showcase Fashion
Above all else, attending horse racing events enables those in attendance to showcase their own fashion, which stands them out from the crowd.
This is something that has always been a factor at the racing, with public ‘catwalks’ being a theme in the modern era. This would enable designers to showcase their fits in a public environment to sense a feeling from what they have developed.
Television coverage has also led to more visitors getting more creative with their styles, as many wish to be seen on the screen. Leading broadcasters such as NBC and ITV, who show live action from the biggest racing events in the United States and United Kingdom, typically put special attention on fashion, with some of the best-dressed visitors interviewed.
Best dressed competitions have become common place at meetings such as the Kentucky Derby and Royal Ascot, giving fans an incentive to make even more effort in the hope of winning prize money.
What Do Visitors Wear at the Racing?
As mentioned previously, while some events still adopt strict dress codes, that isn’t commonplace. Therefore, there is a freedom within fashion when it comes to putting together an outfit for a day at the racing.
For many, this will still embrace the traditional elements of racing fashion, but modern flair is able to bring the 1950s and 60s looks into the modern day. One of the most popular ways that this is achieved is through vibrant colours. Bright colours are commonplace on the track in this modern day, with organizers typically encouraging those attending to go bold.
Female visitors are also able to use accessories to ensure that they standout from the crowd, with many opting for headpieces such as fascinators.
However, the style that is adopted will largely depend on weather conditions. Summer meetings will see bright colours with females in short summer dresses. Meanwhile, winter meetings will see fans opting for bigger coats and fedora hats, which can provide more warmth.
What to Consider Before Going Racing
Putting together an outfit for a day at the racing can be hugely exciting. However, it is important to consider a number of factors before making final decisions.
This includes examining the dress code to ensure that you won’t be refused entry. Meanwhile, a day at the racing can often be a long day on your feet, meaning that a lot of female visitors will bring a change of footwear.
Dressing comfortably while also being fashionable is the biggest challenge that many will face.
