What to wear to the races

6 March 2016
By Fashion Quarterly

What to wear to the races

Steal the show from the foals with your fabulous racing fashion.

It can be daunting, choosing your races attire, because whilst we are all under the pretence that the horses are the main attraction of the day, the women in attendance and their fascinators often steal the spotlight. Each day at the course is different depending on the time of year, theme of the day and the weather forecast, but there are a few fashion commandments that remain the same regardless of which race day you are attending:

PRACTICAL FOOTWEAR
Sensible shoes need not be boring. Go for a thicker, block heel which stays on your foot without any effort. Race days include a lot of standing, and some inevitable off-road wandering.

STATEMENT SUNGLASSES
Great for going incognito, and for protecting your eyes from the sun’s rays, showy sunnies epitomise race day fashion. Work some seventies style by going for cats eye frames to stay right on trend.

LAYER UP
It’s easy to forego a jacket when daydreaming about a super summery day on the track, but when the sun goes down or the weather takes a turn, you’ll regret not bringing a warmer layer.

CLUTCH VS SHOULDER PURSE
Clutches are chic and often the perfect way to polish a classic race day outfit, but when you’re juggling a glass of bubbles, your betting stubs, and your phone, opt for a shoulder bag.

FASCINATE
Big brimmed hats can be impractical in the windy weather, and there’s nothing worse than chasing a fleeing fedora. Go with a fascinator, or if you’re aiming to fly under the radar fashion-wise, a cute headband or flower clipped into your ‘do makes for a pretty play on tradition.

SPRING INSPO
Flirty, feminine dresses are race day uniform. It may be summer but let the springtime inspire you by wearing bright prints, fresh white or light pastel shades.

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