The Winter Races
You’ve been invited to the winter races. It’s a rite of passage and a generations-old tradition that every countryside dweller should experience at least once. While Ascot is the best-known British racecourse, Aintree, Cheltenham, and Chepstow are also high up on the list. However, choosing an outfit for a day at the races isn’t always easy – especially in autumn and winter.
Most British racecourses host a specific ‘Ladies’ Day’ with many giving out exclusive prizes and awards for the best dress. Whether you’re attending Ladies’ Day or another event, a day at the races has its own dress code. For the winter races, coats and dresses are your best friends.
The Dress Code for a Day at the Races
What should you wear to a day at the horse races? Understated elegance is your best option. You’ll be on your feet most of the day, so sensible footwear is a must. While you’ll want to dress conservatively, you can still stand out.
Millinery is the top accessory for any race day attire. Your hat is where you can get creative with your outfit. It’s the showstopper that will pull your look together. Whether you’re choosing an oversized headband or a structural fascinator, it all starts with choosing your outfit first.
While the horse racing events don’t call for black tie, the dress code is semi-formal. Royal Ascot has the strictest dress code. Most other racecourses adopt a more casual approach with hats being optional.
SKYLENCE’s Top Picks for Ladies’ Day at the Races
You’re spoilt for choice when looking for inspiration for ladies’ day at the races. Zara Tindall, Lydia Millen, and Leonna Mayor will give you endless inspiration for what to wear to horse racing.
At SKYLENCE, we think there’s no better way to dress for races than an elegant dress with a statement coat. You’ll be ready for anything the weather might bring while maintaining a sophisticated look.
It’s impossible to go to the races without thinking about Queen Elizabeth II. Our Windsor coat pays homage to the British Royal Family with a classic English silhouette. What makes the coat unique is its handmade black Chinese button knots, inspired by the Ming Dynasty.
Florals are right at home on the racecourse. Our ‘Plum Blossom Midi Dress’ captures the beauty of femininity with its Crepe de Chine silk and message of regeneration.
Keep your race day look understated with our elegant Regency dress. This white dress offers a subtle nod to our Chinese heritage with classic button knots. It provides a sophisticated base for accessorising with a fascinator, statement coat, or heels.
Leonna Mayor is no stranger to the racecourse. She presented the coverage from this summer’s Pontefract Races wearing our best-selling Victoria Porcelain dress. It’s a versatile silhouette inspired by the era Her Majesty Queen Victoria, also known for her love of horses.
The unapologetically feminine Yanxi Embroidered Coat blends East and West with our hand-embroidered magnolia flowers. The magnolia flowers have been a symbol of purity since the Tang Dynasty (1st century) and became a favourite of Emperors. This coat silhouette is timeless and versatile, allowing you to layer it with our staple dresses and accesorise it with a fascinator. With a pair of heels on, this coat dress will surely make you a statement in the crowd!
Mark your calendar and get ready for the races. Our designs blend classic English silhouettes with SKYLENCE’s distinctive oriental heritage. Shop the latest SKYLENCE designs here.
At the same time, we have partnered with SILKS Magazine -- a brand new horse racing and lifestyle magazine that provides for all the weekly racing news, tips, information and more. Head to SILKS Magazine for the latest news and inspirations for races!