The summer sporting season is back! Kicking things off is the return of Royal Ascot at full capacity, with all enclosures being opened for this year's event. This year's racing calendar kicks off from the 14th to the 18th of June and we anticipate a week of classic British sporting, picnics and royal dress code to match. So let us take you through a comprehensive guide on how to make sure you have an enjoyable time if you are attending!
Whether you are a horse-racing aficionado or simply there to enjoy the traditions, arguably one of the most important elements of the event is the fashion of the day! Owed to Beau Brummell, friend of King George IV and noted as the leader of mens fashion at the beginning of the 19th century, the menswear of the event has been heavily influenced by his style at the time.
Depending on which enclosure you attend, the dress code is strictly outlined for that area and it is essential that the dress policy is correctly followed. However don't worry about gambling your way into the event as Royal Ascot has provided their annual dress guide, which you can find here. We are also here to help you get into your best royal attire with our selection of organic cotton, premium fitting shirts. We will take you through each of the enclosures and the respective looks you can wear.
By invitation only from Her Majesty the Queen. If you find yourself invited to the prestigious enclosure, be ready to dust off your finest top hat and waistcoat! It is essential to dress impeccably and the colour palette should be a strict grey or black for morning suits. Typically paired with a top hat and waistcoat it is the ultimate reflection of refined Dandy style.
We suggest our white double cuff twill shirt, for the perfect formal look.
The Queen Anne enclosure is without royal invitation and tickets can be purchased. The dress code is subsequently slightly more relaxed, so they advise a full length suit with matching trouser jacket. It should be complete with a tie, as cravats and bow-ties are not permitted. A full pair of socks is to be worn as covering the ankles is advised.
Alder and Green recommend our Organic White Twill, paired with our full black organic cotton socks.
With a more relaxed atmosphere, the Village Enclosure is popular amongst larger groups and for those opting for a classic summer picnic! The dress code here is far more relaxed, allowing for a full length suit and collared shirt with a bow-tie or cravat. Socks must cover the ankle but bolder patterns and colours are allowed to be worn.
The Windsor Enclosure is the most relaxed environment at Ascot without a particularly strict dress code. The recommended style should be a smart jacket, collared shirt and full length trousers. Attendees can go for slightly more coloured and bolder patterns, whilst still retaining a smart daywear look.
We recommend our Royal Oxford button-down shirts for the ideal smart daywear look.
Around the Ascot racetrack you can pick from 14 different fine-dining restaurants, with a great panoramic view of the racetrack. There are also some great street-food vendors in the surrounding area which offer snacks, food and beverages on the grounds at a variety of different price points.
For that true British experience, opt for a classic picnic! Take it on the grounds, accompanied with a bottle of prosecco or sparkling wine to enjoy in the designated areas or tail-gate style out the back of a car. You can also order a special Fortnum & Mason picnic which can be collected from the Village Enclosure.
The Best of British picnics are also available with an Afternoon Tea for those in the Windsor Enclosure.
For those attending we hope you have a great time and make the most of our return to the start of British sporting summer!