Many of the major social events of the year have a dress code, whether written or implicit. Although the ladies’ fashion takes centre stage for much of the social calendar, men’s fashion matters too and there are certain rules which must be adhered to. Avoid a social faux pas by making sure you know what to wear.
What to wear to....Grand National
Aintree doesn’t have a formal dress code, but sportswear is not permitted for the Grand National weekend and smart tailoring is preferable at all times, and would certainly be expected in the Tattersalls Enclosure.
What to wear to....Badminton Horse Trials
Smart casual is the order of the day, with tweed a firm favourite.
What to wear to....Royal Windsor Horse Show
If you are going into the Members Enclosure you will need to wear a jacket and shirt with collar. Blue denim is not allowed under any circumstances.
What to wear to....Glyndebourne
For the duration of the Glyndebourne Festival formal evening dress is de rigueur. Extra outerwear is recommended for a picnic in case of inclement weather.
What to wear to....Chelsea Flower Show
There is no formal dress code but light coloured trousers with a blazer are a popular choice for men.
What to wear to....Royal Ascot
Men must wear black or grey morning dress in order to gain admittance to the Royal Enclosure. Wear a suitable tie, but not a cravat. Coloured waistcoats are permitted. Footwear should be black brogues or oxfords. Top hats must be plain and unadorned. Unless you are in enclosed seating, a private box or a restaurant you should keep your hat on at all times.
What to wear to....Wimbledon
There isn’t an official code for what you should wear, but the Lawn Tennis Club did issue a list of what not to wear a couple of years ago, which included, as you might expect, jeans and flip flops. A linen suit would be a suitable option.
What to wear to....Henley Royal Regatta
The Regatta Enclosure demands just smart casual wear, but in the Stewards’ Enclosure a lounge suit or blazer and flannels with tie or cravat are obligatory. Boaters are popular at Henley.
What to wear to....Glorious Goodwood
Smart casual would be appropriate, but if you will be in the Richmond Enclosure, a jacket and tie or cravat are required, or you could wear a polo neck sweater. If you really want to look the part don a Goodwood Panama hat.
What to wear to....Cowes Week
Sailing wear is appropriate for the daytime, provided it is smart. Cocktail parties will require a lounge suit, and for a ball it should be black tie.
What to wear to....Polo
If you’re attending a polo tournament, such as the Queens Cup at Windsor or the Veuve Clicquot World Cup at Cowdray Park, you’ll be expected to smart casual, with white trousers and a blazer a popular choice.
If you have any doubts about what to wear for one of the season’s other events, contact us - we will be happy to advise you on the most suitable choice of clothing for the occasion.