Stylish racegoers upped the fashion stakes as they brought the glitz and glamour to Royal Ascot today.
Fashionable revellers donned their finest frocks and extravagant hats as they descended on the stunning surroundings of the famous Berkshire racecourse.
Sky-scraper heels, bright colours and floral frocks were the order of the day as guests were snapped arriving in the glorious sunshine for day one of what is one of the most glamorous events in the British horse racing calendar.
English television presenter, model, and fashion journalist Louise Roe was amongst the first to arrive and stole the limelight in a stunning pink floral gown complete with a contrasting red fascinator.
Racing guru and presenter Flora Gibbs looked very much the lady in red as she donned an elegant lace rouge frock with capped sleeves, stiletto heels and matching fascinator and clutch bag.
Meanwhile, another fashionista looked the picture of elegance in a black two-piece suit, which she accessorised with a Chanel brooch and classic quilted handbag by the high-end luxury brand.
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Royal Ascot is the pinnacle of British horse racing events and will see Champagne corks popped early and the Pimms and lemonade flowing as millions bet on 35 races over the course of the next five days.
Steeped in tradition and elegance, the dress code at the prestigious horse-racing event reflects its rich heritage, demanding attire that exudes sophistication and refinement.
It varies across different enclosures, with the Royal Enclosure setting the highest standards for attire with strictly top hat and tails only.
The Queen Anne Enclosure offers a more relaxed dress code, while the Windsor Enclosure is the most relaxed, with no formal dress code but smart attire is encouraged.
As the preparations got underway, one fashion-forward reveller made sure she turned heads with her very extravagant floral headpiece, which was complete with an arrange of pretty pink flowers and orange butterflies.
And she wasn't alone - with other flamboyant headpieces including a Love Heart sweet-themed hat, with each sweet emblazoned with various phrases including 'hot lips,' 'be mine' and 'dream girl.'
But it's little surprise racegoers were keen to show off their best finery today...because it's likely they'll soon be in royal company.
King Charles and Queen Camilla, who had an 18-1 winner when they attended last year's meeting - are expected to rock up again this year in the famed Royal Procession, which takes place before racing every day.
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It should go without saying that dresses must cover your bum — ideally knee-length or longer.
Coats should be tailored as a nod to the grandeur and smartness of the day.
And footwear should remain on your feet. All day. So make sure it’s comfortable.
Another rule of thumb is never wear white.
Remember, you’ll be penned in with hundreds of people, and will need to eat and drink — that means ample opportunity for spillage.
I’ll never forget the images of a punter in 2019 who spilled red wine down her white jumpsuit.
Her pals got creative and decided to drench the entire PrettyLittleThing outfit with the bottle’s remains to create a tie-dye look.
Instead, just remember your coat — not only because of the unpredictable weather, but should you slop ketchup from a hamburger down your front you can cover yourself up, too.
When it comes to shoes, heeled sandals are a big no-no.
They are great for giddy-up glamour but not suited to being outdoors all day.
Try a wedged heel or closed-foot court shoe with a small, chunky heel for extra support and comfort under the balls of your feet.
Zara Tindall always gets it right, for example with pair of black courts and slim-fit trousers.
Also, don’t be one of those country bumpkin try-hards.
A nod to equestrian style is fine, but you often see people dressing head to toe in tweed or wearing Peaky Blinders-style flat caps.
Lastly, the best-dressed at Ascot are always mindful of their boobs.
Listen, I get it. If you’ve got ’em, flaunt ’em.
But just not too much.
Tastefully show the crease of a cleavage and leave everything else to the imagination.
Showing off your entire bust is something that should be reserved for the comfort of your home or a night out on the pull.
The first day of Royal Ascot 2024 will see three exceptional Group 1 races headlined by the St James's Palace Stakes.
Racegoers will be waving their betting slips as they watch in anticipation as the three winners of the 2,000 Guineas in England, Ireland and France clash in a battle to prove their superiority over the Classic generation.
Royal Ascot was founded in 1711 by Queen Anne who, when riding out from Windsor Castle, came across a piece of land “ideal for horses to gallop at full stretch” and thus Ascot Racecourse was born.
