Glam Aintree racegoers pull out all the stops for Day 1 of Grand National Festival with colour-pop outfits & fascinators

IT'S one of the most elite events in the world of racing - and this year, Aintree guests have not left us disappointed with their fashion looks.

Soaking up the glorious sunshine, glam revellers arrived for day one of the Grand National Festival - and they've certainly pulled out all stops with the ensembles.

Aintree Grand National Festival attendees taking a selfie.
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Photographers have captured the glitz and glamour of the arrivals and many have donned their glad rags for the raceCredit: Splash
Sam Quek at the Grand National Festival.
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English former field hockey player Sam Quek turned heads with this gorgeous burgundy gownCredit: Splash
Sarah Jayne Dunn at the Aintree Grand National Festival.
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This woman, dressed head to toe in red, cut a glamorous figure at the eventCredit: BackGrid
Woman in yellow jumpsuit at Aintree Grand National Festival.
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Many attendees, including this woman, went with bold colours and mega sunniesCredit: BackGrid
Woman in white dress and hat at Aintree Grand National Festival.
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This guest arrived looking sensational in a white midi dress and strappy heels, which complimented her glowCredit: BackGrid
Woman in a light blue dress at the Aintree Grand National Festival.
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This stylish guest looked like a real-life princess in a light blue dress and gorgeous locksCredit: BackGrid
Woman in a lavender polka dot dress and white coat at a racecourse.
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Katie Young, partner of Mark Walsh, showed off a bold fascinator that matched her elegant dressCredit: PA
Racegoer in pink feather dress at the Randox Grand National Festival.
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This guest looked pretty in pink as she showed off her best posesCredit: PA
Three women in dresses at a horse race.
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A group of friends looked sensational as they arrived in their fineryCredit: PA

More than 150,00 people are expected to follow the racing bonanza in person over the next three days.

Photographers have captured the glitz and glamour of the arrivals and many have donned their glad rags for the prestigious race.

Today, attendees have arrived at the Merseyside racecourse dressed in style, with figure-hugging dresses and towing stilettos being a staple for many.

With the tipple flowing and smiles beaming, several groups have arrived in high spirits and are making the most of the day in the sun with a glass of fizz.

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While Cheltenham punters often prefer tweed-themed outfits, Aintree tends to attract bold fashion and bright ensembles, with guests encouraged to dress “to feel your best.”

And unlike Royal Ascot, the dress cost is less strict. 

Revellers can even wear fancy dress, as long as it isn’t deemed to be offensive.

The website states: “At Aintree Racecourse we believe racing should be enjoyed by anyone and everyone. 

“And one thing is certainly true, the more relaxed and comfortable we feel, the more likely we are to have a great time. 

“So that’s why we’ve created one very simple piece of guidance, to come ‘dressed to feel your best.

Jim Delahunt's FREE horse racing tips - Aintree preview show - Grand National + all 21 races over the three days

“We’re all unique, and no more so than in our sense of style and comfort. 

“For some, wearing a nice sweatshirt, pair of jeans and clean trainers is what makes them feel confident and at-ease. 

“For others, they might prefer to turn heads with a sharp suit or glamorous dress and high heels, particularly for one of our big race meetings.

What is banned at Aintree when it comes to fashion?

Fancy dress is also encouraged, but the racecourse adds: “please avoid inappropriate or offensive outfits, as anything deemed vulgar or derogatory may be refused entry.”

“But whatever your tastes, the most important thing when choosing your outfit is, of course, comfort and confidence. 

“So wear what feels right for you and will keep you feeling your best from start to finish, whatever the weather.”

The event, which traditionally features 40 horses, has been running since 1839 and around a third of the UK is expected to put at least one bet on this year's race.

Last year's winner was I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins - who took home the epic £1million prize.

In 2021 Rachael Blackmore became the first-ever female jockey to win the Grand National - and this year, she will ride Minella Indo.

The Irish jockey rode the Henry De Bromhead-trained horse in the big one last year, finishing third, just eight lengths behind the winner I Am Maximus.

Minella Indo is priced at a huge 40/1 to win the Grand National at the time of writing.

How to watch the Grand National 2025

The 2025 Grand National will be broadcast LIVE on ITV1.

You can live stream the big race for FREE via the ITVX app or website.

Read More on The Sun

Racing TV will also provide coverage of the Grand National, but you will be required to purchase a subscription.

A monthly pass to the channel will cost £29.98, or you can purchase an annual plan for £298.

Woman in floral dress being photographed at a horse race.
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This brunette beauty beamed as she posed for a photo at AintreeCredit: PA
Woman wearing a large orange and pink hat with feathers.
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This woman arrived in the sun and was earing an eye-catching fascinatorCredit: News images
Woman in floral dress at Aintree Grand National Festival.
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Many racegoers preferred summery floral prints for their day at the eventCredit: Splash
Couple in fashionable attire at the Aintree Grand National Festival.
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This couple looked elegant as they soaked up the sun on the first day of the prestigious eventCredit: BackGrid
Three women wearing stylish hats and sunglasses at a horse race.
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This group of pals served their best looks, as they smiled for the camerasCredit: PA
Woman in pearl-embellished jeans at the Aintree Grand National Festival.
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Some attendees opted for more casual - but still stylish - looksCredit: BackGrid
Woman in white jumpsuit and hat at Aintree Grand National Festival.
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One woman proved you can never go wrong with an all-white ensembleCredit: BackGrid