Hats for the races: This season’s top trends for Ascot and beyond
Don your finest feathery fascinator or pillbox hat for a quintessentially British day at the races
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Whether the Grand National, Royal Ascot, or Epsom Derby, dressing to impress has become synonymous with a day at the races during British summertime. And the crown jewel of your sophisticated race day style? A fabulous hat or headpiece, of course. Traditional, timeless, and available in a plethora of styles – from bold and dramatically sculptured with feathers and ruffles, to low-key, minimal and classically elegant, hats for the races are not merely the finishing touch to your outfit, but the absolute pièce de résistance.
However, unless hats form part of your everyday get up (unlikely), it’s going to take a little bit of trial and error to get right. First and foremost, check the dress code. At Royal Ascot, for instance, there are different rules and regulations depending on which enclosure you have tickets for, and no one wants to be turned away for being underdressed (what a faux pas). You also want your hat to complement your outfit, whether subtly or in a stand-out manner, while practicality and comfort are key. No one wants a migraine by 11am because they’ve chosen an overly tight headband and, while wild, wide-brimmed designs may be showstopping, they’re not always the most convenient on a hot day among the crowds.
Image: Awon Golding, Royal Ascot Millinery Collective 2025
Image: Jane Taylor, Royal Ascot Millinery Collective 2025
To put you on the right track, we’ve got the lowdown on this season’s trending hat styles from world-renowned milliners Jane Taylor and Awon Golding. Both part of the Royal Ascot Millinery Collective for 2025, which celebrates its tenth anniversary this year and plays a pivotal role in shaping the occasion wear landscape each summer, they highlight this season’s hottest looks. We’ve also spotlighted some standout designs, guaranteed to turn heads trackside and beyond.
The pillbox hat
“The classic pillbox hat, long associated with the Jackie Onassis-inspired styling of the ’50s and ’60s, is undergoing a modern transformation,” says Taylor. A compact but effortlessly smart style, it has been a signature at the races for years. Aaccording to Taylor, it’s seeing a modern upgrade for 2025: “Instead of sitting toward the back of the head, this season’s pillbox takes on a more structured, minimalist approach, positioned higher and echoing the refined silhouettes of the 1980s.”
As seen on the SS25 runways at brands including Chloe, Loro Piano, and Valentino, the pillbox hat offers a new cool girl approach to the flat-topped, age-old silhouette. Taylor says, “With its sleek lines and understated sophistication, this updated style pairs seamlessly with tailored ensembles… Timeless yet refreshingly contemporary, it’s the perfect accessory for a polished, power-driven look.” Pair with a crisp midi dress for a modish race day look.
The boater hat
Another popular style returning this season is the oversized brimmed boater. The flat-brim, disc shape that may be reminiscent of your school days – or the gondoliers in Venice where it originated – offers a casual but summery, and undeniably charming option for a day at the races. Taylor explains: “This trend gained traction last year and continues to complement structured suits and tailored dresses beautifully.”
Typically made from a stiff straw fabric, with a ribbon tied around the crown, it is minimal in design but oozes femininity and refined style when paired with a floral dress, wedges, and a glass of champagne. Boater hats also double up wonderfully for summer holidays on the French Riviera creating a tres chic aesthetic that protects you from the sun too.
The wide-brimmed hat
Yes, less can be more – but for a day at the races when only all-out opulence will do, opt for a wide-brimmed hat. Nothing says glamour and confidence better than this oversized and fabulously dramatic style. Aavailable in all shades and with all the frills attached, there is a giant hat for every taste. Just watch where you’re walking…
The halo headband
If the dress code doesn't require full-blown millinery, the halo headband is a great alternative and proves a favourite year on year. Referring to a semi-circular band that sits around the head, like a halo, as the name suggests, choose between plain and embellished styles to elevate your outfit with a feminine touch that couldn’t be simpler to style.
Golding says, “Spring/Summer 2025 sees the ubiquitous halo headband reign supreme for another year. The easy-to-wear headband means you don’t need to consider head sizing, just make sure it’s 10cm or wider if you’re attending Royal Ascot in the Royal Enclosure.” More practical than wearing a big hat all day long, the headband will finesse your summer race day style with grace and grandeur for an eye-catching, angelic accessory.
Feathers and florals
You can never be too OTT for a day out at the races. Trust us, there’ll always be someone with a bigger, fluffier, brighter hat than you. Lending a flamboyant edge to your headwear, feathers add texture and drama to your hat, headband, or fascinator while keeping it feminine and elegant. And florals add a natural aspect, keeping your look summery, delicate, and fresh.
Monochrome
From dresses to tops, shoes to bags, and you guessed it, hats, monochrome is making its case across the SS25 collections as one of the must-have palettes of the season. The classic black and white combination may be the definition of timeless but it’s simple, effective and works every time, for both easy, playful, and formal designs.
Pastels and brights
When it comes to a more vibrant palette, this season’s look is “set to be a beautiful blend of soft pastels and bold statement hues,” says Taylor. “Expect delicate shades of buttery yellow, blush pink, coral, and powder blue, accented by striking pops of scarlet red and fresh spring greens, including a chic pistachio.” This blend makes for a joyous look that is feminine and fun – and has resulted in a rainbow of millinery perfect for almost every outfit. Taylor also remarks that pink remains a perennial favourite, but this season takes on a bold new character – “think vibrant hot pink infused with a hint of coral, perfect for both headwear and fashion.”
One for more tonal, low-key shades? Timeless neutrals continue to shine in the hat department. “Shades of nude, mocha, crisp white, and ivory create a refined, sophisticated look, ideal for effortless styling,” explains Taylor. Perfect for a day at the races, then.
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