What to wear to the races for men 2019 | The Sun UK

Publish date: 2024-08-21

ONCE you’ve managed to secure a ticket, the next question as the big day approaches is, what should you wear to the races?

For men, the answer depends on the event and the specific enclosure that you’ll be in. Many publish fairly strict dress codes, and these should always be your first port of call to make sure you’re allowed in.

But dress codes can sometimes feel like they’re written in, well, code. And some races don’t list specific attire, but just expect that you’ll be looking smart.

And even once you’ve worked out what you’re supposed to wear, finding the pieces themselves can be a mammoth task.

So we’ve taken the hassle out of the whole thing with this guide to the main dress codes you’re likely to encounter.

We’ve also selected our pick of the best pieces to buy, so read on to shop essential race day style.

Morning suit dress code

If the dress code for your enclosure specifies that you must wear a morning suit, such as in the royal enclosure at Ascot, it’s best not to do anything to rock the boat.

Stick with the classics and you’ll be sure to get the look right.

This includes a topcoat with tails and grey trousers, a shirt and tie and a top hat. Polished leather shoes are essential.

Black Regular Fit Wool Blend Morning Suit, £199 from Marks & Spencer - buy here
Easy Care Shirt, £16 from Next - buy here
Aiden Silk Tie, £45 from Reiss - buy here
Costwold Country Hat, £34.95 from Amazon - buy here
Doucal's Classic Lace-Up Shoes, £249 from Farfetch - buy here

Lounge suit dress code

If it’s specified in the dress code that you should be wearing a suit, it’s important to note that it must be a full suit of matching pieces.

Generally, a contrasting jacket and trousers won’t be allowed.

In cases that are this smart, there are often other rules, sometimes unwritten, to be aware of.

For example, you’ll probably be expected to wear socks that cover your ankles, and ties will likely be mandatory.

Don’t risk a bow tie or cravat at these occasions.

Make sure you stand out by wearing something with more personality than you would wear to the office - adding a waistcoat and a pocket square is a good place to start

Grey Checked Skinny Fit 3 Suit, £154 from Marks & Spencer - buy here
Oxider Slim Fit Stretch Shirt, £80 from Reiss - buy here
Blue And Pink Stripe Tie, £10 from Burton - buy here
Ted Baker Hatoff Parrot Linen Pocket Square, £29 from Selfridges - buy here.

Smart dress code

If you’re required to look smart but the dress code doesn’t specify a suit, you’re allowed to get a bit creative.

Try mixing a blazer and tailored trousers or chinos in a different colour, for example.

If you can get away with it, ditch the tie and wear your shirt collar open, opting for a pocket square instead.

While the focus at the races is often on what the women are wearing, there’s no reason why you can’t stand out.

Bright colours and bold patterns are generally welcome as long as they’re worn in good taste, so feel free to show some personality.

Windowpane Check Skinny Fit Suit Blazer, £45 from Boohoo - buy here
Moss London Skinny Fit Sky Single Cuff Contrast Collar & Cuff Shirt, £32.95 from Moss Bros - buy here
Slim-Fit Chinos, £49.99 from Mango - buy here
Grey Paisley Print Pocket Square, £4.99 from New Look - buy here
Tan Faux Suede Prince Tassel Loafers, £30 from Topman - buy here

No dress code

Not every race and enclosure has such strict dress codes, and if you’re heading for a fun day out with friends then you might have opted for one of these more relaxed scenes.

While you still want to put some effort in, you can wear something much more relaxed.

Our suggestion is to go for something preppy.

It’s casual without being too laid-back, and it keeps with the mood of the occasion.

An Oxford shirt, jumper and chinos will do the trick.

Polo Ralph Lauren Logo Jumper, £125 from Farfetch - buy here
Men Regular Fit Oxford Shirt, £19.90 from Uniqlo - buy here
Westbury Slim Fit Chinos, £95 from Reiss - buy here
Braided Leather Belt, £29.99 from Mango - buy here
House of Hounds Tan Suede Helios Stamp Loafers, £69 from Topman - buy here

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