What To Wear To Ladies Day At Royal Ascot 2019

Image: Ted Baker

When it comes to occasion dressing, it always feels like the races is the most challenging event in our calendar. With so many strict rules to adhere to, never since we were 15 have we been told in quite so many words that we can’t leave the house looking ‘like that’. And whilst the formal dress code and age-old traditions do restrict our choices, when you look at it, it’s actually something to be seriously celebrated. After all, how often do you really get to dress up to the nines in your day-to-day life? Our guess is, not so much. 

Of all the events in the racing schedule, Royal Ascot is the one to watch. It’s practically synonymous with style, grace and elegance - not to mention the bonkers couture head-wear - and its dedicated ladies day is one of the most revered style events outside of Fashion Week. But dressing so wildly out of our comfort zones doesn’t come naturally, which is why we’re on the case to make picking out a Royal Ascot Ladies Day look as easy as throwing on a t-shirt and jeans.  

As a general rule, all racegoers are expected to dress smartly but, depending on your chosen enclosure, you may have to go the extra mile. Luckily, the occasionwear aficionados at Ted Baker have every eventuality covered. Chic dresses in luxurious fabrics are a sure bet, but why not have a flutter on colour pop suits if you’re feeling lucky. Jumpsuits are the front runner of the season but, if you want to things free-moving and separate for maximum wear when the event is gone, a midi skirt and blazer combo are guaranteed to go the distance.  

With Royal Ascot 2019 running from the 18th June, Ladies Day on the 20th and a slew of other dates to stick in the diary, there’s really no time to waste. Scroll down for our golden rules on race day dressing and the top occasion picks to snap up from Ted Baker now. 

1. Dresses and skirts should be of modest length - something just above the knee or longer.

2. Straps must be one inch wide or greater - that means strapless, bardot, halter necks and spaghetti cami straps are off the table unless fully covered with a jacket at all times. We'd recommend going for sleeves every time.

3. Midriffs are a no-no! Instead of cut-outs, express your style with sophisticated colour and print.

4. Trouser suits are welcome but they must meet the ankle and be matching - no freestyling!

5. Jumpsuits are also encouraged, but they must meet all the same requirements as the dresses. 

6. Hats are essential. Anything with a solid base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is considered a hat - and you’ve got to keep it on! 

We're obsessed with long sleeve midi and maxi dresses in gorgeous floral prints, but if you want to play by your own style rules (whilst adhering to the official ones, of course) you can't go wrong with a statement jumpsuit or tailored two-piece in a zingy summer shade. 

1. Similarly to the Royal enclosure, strapless and sheer dresses and tops are not permitted. But in better news, they relax the rules on straps so your cami slip dress is good to go!

2. Trouser suits must be full-length (so no shorts!) and jumpsuits should fall below the knee, but still no strapless numbers. 

3. That midriff is still a no-show area, and must be covered but the Royal Anne and Village enclosures are much more accepting of skirt and top pairings.

4. A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times. 

Skip the mesh and avoid skinny straps to be on the safe side, instead adding interest to your look with sophisticated panel details and crisp pleats. And don't forget - keep the length next to the knee for peace of mind.