For any man looking to make a fashion statement, race day is when to do it. The spring/summer events kicked off with Cheltenham in March but it’s worth noting that each venue has its own dress code — so what should you wear for each?

Ready For The Randox Health Grand National Festival?

Date: 4th April – 6th April

Aintree is the hot spot for everyone looking to attend a race day, and you must dress smart. Fancy dress is not permitted for the Grand National, instead opt for formalwear or semi-formalwear.

Your wardrobe:

• Sports clothing is not permitted so avoid tracksuit bottoms and trainers. Instead choose smart shoes such as brogues or Oxford shoes.
• Take the opportunity to get suited and booted, or at least wear a suit and tie. Although some choose to wear a top hat and tail, it’s not required.

Ready For The The Scottish Grand National Festival?

Date: 12th April – 13th April

When it comes to dressing for this event, it will depend on the ticket that you have bought. In the Hospitality Facilities and Club Stand, smart dress is encouraged, but in the Grandstand, there is no formal dress code.

• A tie isn’t compulsory in the Hospitality Facilities but you might want to wear one to look the part.
• In the Club Stand, avoid wearing ripped/torn denim or trainers or you face being refused entry to the main event, instead suits are encouraged.
• Although there’s no formal dress code in the Grandstand, don’t wear football colours or distasteful fancy dress as you risk bringing the tone down and will be asked to leave.

Ready For The Boodles May Festival?

Date: 8th May – 10th May

You must bring you’re a-game for this event. There are five enclosures at Chester, but how should you dress for each?

The Winning Post Enclosure & County Enclosure

If you’re looking for total relaxation, this adult-only enclosure will offer just that. Blazers for men are a must with smart trousers and a shirt, collar and tie. There are no denim jeans, trainers, sportswear or fancy dress allowed.

The Tattersalls Enclosure

Rocking the smart-casual look is what you should be challenging when it comes to the Tattersalls Enclosure. Smart jeans, trousers and chinos are allowed but ripped jeans are not permitted. There are other rules to follow too as shorts, sportswear, t-shirts and fancy dress will lead to refused entry.

Dee Stand & Open Course

Creativity is key, and you’re not required follow any fashion rules. Although dressing smart is encouraged!

The Investec Derby Festival

Dates: 31st May – 1st June

When it comes to the Investec Derby Festival, we’re guaranteed that you’ll have a great time with your Race Day friends. As there are various enclosures at this race course, you’ll need to know the following when it comes to choosing what to wear:

• Avoid wearing sportswear or sleeveless vests In the Grandstand Enclosure on both Ladies Day and Derby Day.
• Smart denim is accepted in the Grandstand Enclosure unless it is frayed, torn or ripped. Sports trainers are also not allowed.
• On Derby Day, in the Queen’s Stand Enclosure, men must wear a black or grey morning suit which includes a top hat, service dress or full national costume.

The Royal Ascot

Dates: 18th June – 22nd June

Royal Ascot is one of the biggest events of them all. Dress code depends on each enclosure but there are also some general rules to follow, and some of them are quite strict!

Royal Enclosure

• A black or grey morning dress is a requirement which must include a waistcoat and tie (no cravats or bow ties), a black or grey top hat and black shoes worn with socks.
• Hats should not be customised, and novelty waistcoats and ties are not allowed.

Village Enclosure

• Jackets, full-length trousers, collared shirts and ties are a must for every gentleman in the village enclosure.
• When it comes to your tie, the rules are more relaxed than in the Royal Enclosure. You’re allowed to wear bow ties or cravats in addition to a regular tie.
• Socks should cover the ankle and you should avoid wearing jeans and trainers.

Windsor Enclosure

Gentleman must still wear jacket, collared shirt and full-length trousers in this section of Ascot. Smart shoes are essential, brogues or derby shoes.

Queen Anne Enclosure

• Make sure you’re coordinating if you get a ticket for this enclosure as jackets and trousers should be of matching colour and pattern.
• Bow ties and cravats are not allowed in this enclosure.