Race day ready: What to wear to Royal Ascot 2026
Because a day at the races is about so much more than just the racing
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One of the most esteemed sporting events in the British summer calendar, Royal Ascot returns from 16-20 June 2026. A five-day lineup of the very best race horses, skilled jockeys, and acclaimed equestrians, it’s also the event of the season when it comes to donning your best dresses, morning suits, top hats, and fascinators. In fact, Royal Ascot is famous for its exacting dress code. Don’t want to get turned away at the gate? Here’s our guide to what to wear to Royal Ascot 2026.
While there is no fixed sartorial theme for the festivities (smart, sharp tailoring and pretty floral ensembles are equally acceptable), every year the Royal Ascot Handbook points us in the direction of the trends to follow, looks to embrace, and timeless classics to go for. Presented once again this year by Royal Ascot’s first-ever creative director, Daniel Fletcher, 2026’s lookbook, The Art of Dressing Well, is a celebration of British heritage and contemporary style fronted by British fashion icon and supermodel Erin O’Connor MBE.
This year’s trends include Show Us Your Silks (think bold colours and patterns, nodding to jockey silks), Tell Us Your Story (whimsical, eccentric ensembles capturing the magic of anticipation, celebration and spectacle), and Think Outside the Box (the clue is in the name). It also launches the inaugural Royal Ascot Colour of the Year: Bright Tomato, which racegoers are encouraged to embrace.
Fletcher says, “Every year at Royal Ascot there is always one trend that stands out as a big hit with butter yellow and periwinkle blue being recent examples. For 2026, we’re seeing a distinct shift towards confident, expressive colour with Bright Tomato set to take centre stage as a defining shade in occasionwear, bringing a bold new direction for the Royal Ascot palette. That bright orangey-red of a ripe tomato creates an instant feeling of summer joy.”
With that in mind, we’ve got the full lowdown on the individual enclosure dress codes for both men and women, plus some of our favourite looks and accessories. Whether opting for a chic, sophisticated ensemble or going all out with an extravagant statement piece, make Royal Ascot 2026 one for the (look)books.
The Royal Enclosure
Women:
- Dresses or skirts must fall just above the knee or below, and shoulder straps must be a minimum width of 2.5cm. (Lace and chiffon fabrics are permitted.)
- Jumpsuits must fall below the knee and adhere to shoulder strap rules.
- Trouser suits must match in material and colour.
- Hats must be worn (a headpiece or fascinator with a base diameter of 10cm is acceptable).
Men:
- Morning dress in black, grey, or navy material.
- Waistcoat and necktie required.
- Black or grey top hat.
- Black dress shoes worn with socks covering the ankle.
The Queen Anne Enclosure
Women:
- A dress or top and skirt combination with shoulder or halter neck straps (no minimum length, lace and chiffon fabrics are permitted).
- Jumpsuits must fall below the knee.
- Trouser suits must be matching material and colour.
- Hat, headpiece, or fascinator required.
Men:
- A full-length two or three-piece suit – jacket and trousers must match in material and colour.
- Collared shirt and necktie.
- Socks must be worn and cover the ankle.
The Village Enclosure
Women:
- A dress or top and skirt combination with shoulder or halter neck straps – no minimum length (lace and chiffon fabrics are permitted).
- Jumpsuits must fall below the knee and comply with strap requirements.
- Trouser suits must match in material and colour.
- Hat, headpiece, or fascinator required.
Men:
- Suit jacket or blazer with full-length trousers or chinos (jacket and trousers can be different materials).
- Necktie, bowtie, or cravat required.
- Socks must be worn and cover the ankle.
The Windsor Enclosure
While there is no official dress code in the Windsor Enclosure, guests are encouraged to dress in smart daywear. Hats, headpieces, and fascinators are strongly recommended for women, and jackets and collared shirts for men.
Hats and headpieces for Royal Ascot
It wouldn’t be Royal Ascot without a fabulous piece of millinery. Be inspired by our favourite hats and fascinators below, or get the full rundown on the best styles in our edit here.
Accessories for Royal Ascot
Of course, great accessorising doesn’t stop at a hat. Complete your Ascot look with chic wedges, a cute clutch, and dazzling jewellery, or a slick silk tie, and you’re on your way to an exceptional day out.
Read more: This season’s top hat trends for Ascot and beyond
