It’s race season – and if you’re heading to your first ever race meet, choosing the perfect outfit can be stressful!
From adhering to the race dress code to choosing the most stylish and comfortable shoes for the occasion, there are many things to consider before your first race day experience.
At Ravel, we love race day dressing! So, in this blog, we’re offering all of our best advice and tips on how to dress for the races, including the dress code of each big race meet in the UK and the best shoes for the occasion.
Contents:
Dress for the races: What to wear
Choosing ladies’ shoes for the races
Get race day ready with our top takeaways
Dress for the races:
What to wear
Dressing for the races is an event in itself! Race meetings are social events requiring a considered approach when it comes to your attire, combining elegance, tradition and your own personal style.
The first thing you should address before choosing an outfit is whether or not the race meet has a dress code. While some race meets are quite relaxed, others, such as Royal Ascot, have enclosures where meeting the dress code is essential. Once you know what’s expected of you and the etiquette of the event, you’ll find planning your outfit much easier.
Your race day outfit should be harmonious, with every element complementing the last. You should consider this when choosing your race day shoes, but you must also consider comfort and practicality, as you could be on your feet for most of the day.
Race day dress codes:
Although not mutually exclusive, we’ve pulled together the dates and dress code details of some of the most popular race meets to help you decide on your outfit.
The Betfred Derby Festival (June 6th-7th, 2025)
More commonly known as the Epsom Derby, the Epsom Festival is heralded as one of the most colourful fixtures of the race calendar.
The dress code for this race festival is ‘dress to feel your best’, so while you should expect that some people will be dressed formally, there aren’t many rules around what you can and can’t wear. Team sports attire is not permitted, and if you’re planning on wearing fancy dress, please ensure it’s not inappropriate or offensive..
The Queen Elizabeth II stand and attached hospitality area does have a dress code, so if you’re heading there, you must wear a formal day dress or tailored trouser suit with a hat or fascinator, so choose shoes that complement these looks accordingly.
Royal Ascot (June 17th – 21st, 2025)
One of the most prestigious, traditional race meets, Royal Ascot, is known for offering the best in style. Associated with elegance and excellence, it’s important to check each of the enclosure’s strict dress codes before attending to make sure your outfit ticks all of the boxes.
What is the dress code for the Ascot races?
The dress code for each of the enclosures differs depending on which you’re attending, but there are some key takeaways:
Royal Enclosure
- Dresses and skirts must fall just above the knee or longer. Jumpsuits must fall below the knee or longer.
- Any shoulder straps must be a minimum width of one inch (2.5 cm).
- Jackets and pashminas can be worn, but tops and dresses must still comply.
- Trouser suits must be of matching colours and materials.
- A hat, headpiece or hatinator must be worn. The latter must have a minimum base diameter of four inches (10 cm).
Queen Anne Enclosure
- The dress code is slightly more relaxed yet still formal.
- Outfits should include a dress or top and skirt with shoulder or halter neck straps (lace and chiffon are allowed, and there is no minimum length requirement).
- Trouser suits should match in colour and material. Jumpsuits should fall below the knee.
- A hat, headpiece or fascinator must be worn.
Village Enclosure
- Smart but less formal.
- The same rules apply as in the Queen Anne Enclosure.
Windsor Enclosure
- Relaxed but smart daywear and headwear are encouraged.
(Glorious) Goodwood Festival (29th July – 2nd August, 2025)
With a relaxed and chic summer atmosphere, Glorious Goodwood celebrates quintessentially British style.
What is the dress code for the Goodwood races?
When choosing your outfit, think classic summer styling, the clothing you would choose for a summer garden party, such as floaty florals or an elegant top and trousers combination. While hats and fascinators aren’t essential, wear them if they complement your look.
Key race dates to look out for in 2026:
- Cheltenham Festival (10th – 13th March 2026) has no formal dress code. However, people do usually dress up. As this event occurs in the springtime, when the weather is more unpredictable, opt for boots instead of summer-inspired shoes.
- Aintree – Randox Grand National (9th – 11th April 2026) – one of the biggest and most popular racing festivals of the year, with an emphasis on ‘dressing to feel your best’. Although there’s no formal dress code, dress fancy if the mood and feel are right!
Choosing ladies’ shoes for the races
Choosing the correct race day shoes is crucial for your style and comfort, particularly as you’ll probably be spending hours on your feet.
Here are our top shoe picks for various race scenarios;
- A stylish, unsinkable block heel
A block heel is the gold standard for height without sinking if your race day is spent on the grass. An ideal choice that combines elegance and practicality, whether you choose a low-block heel or a party platform. If heels are for you, there’s no better way to elevate your look!
For ’70s-inspired fashion, choose our Gold Metallic Ornsay Heeled Sandals and curate a boho chic look. Or if you prefer a lower block heel, our Metallic Silver Leather Callie Ankle Strap Sandals are the perfect race day shoes; tailor-made for occasion dressing post-race meet.
Finally, our classic Tan & Gold Rewley Block-Heeled Platform Sandals are finished with chic gold detailing. They are perfect for holiday dressing but look great with both playsuits, tailored classics, and long, flowing dresses on race day.
- The graceful wedge
A clear race day winner, much like a block-heeled shoe or sandal, a wedge sandal offers all the height of a heel with added stability, perfect for time spent outdoors.
Espadrilles are a stellar choice for race day, if you’re looking for a combination of comfort, style and sophistication. Easy to wear and style, they’re exceptionally versatile, and the perfect choice for both formal and relaxed settings, therefore suitable for most race day meets. For the most formal option, our Black Suede Vista Espadrille Wedge Sandals, offer a well-made, luxurious finish.
Or, for something slightly more sophisticated, our Rose Gold Leather Childers Wedge Sandals and our Dusky Pink Suede Kelty Open-Toe Wedge Sandals seamlessly marry summer with sophistication.
- The polished court shoe
For more formal enclosures, when a sleek, timeless look is essential, court shoes offer a classic elegance that stands the test of time. At Ravel, we offer an exceptional collection of classic court shoes perfect for race day and other special occasions beyond the event. Whether you choose a pointed or almond toe for the meet, you’re guaranteed sophistication with every step. Looking for accessories to complete the look? Browse our matching bags for the ideal pairing with your court shoes.
From our classic Pale Gold Edson heeled pumps to our summery chic Blue Floral Kavan Slingback Court Shoes and our statement White Patent Dalry Slingback Courts, whatever your style preference, you’re guaranteed elegance with these amazing options. Just take extra care when crossing the grass!
- A strategic choice – the dressy flat
Although flats might not be an obvious go-to race shoe, a dressy option can be your secret weapon for all-day comfort! If you’re not usually a heel-wearer or race day involves navigating extensive grounds, a beautifully embellished or classically stylish flat can be the ideal solution.
Our chic flats are ideal for tailored jumpsuits, matching trouser suits and similar classic looks. Opt for our Gold Ellon Ballerina Shoes if you’re looking for an exquisite pairing to a chic summer skirt or dress, or opt for our Gold Leather Lanton Flat Shoes and Rose Gold Leather Anston Crochet Loafers for a sophisticated finish to your tailored staples.
Get race day ready with our top takeaways
So now you know what to expect on race day and the shoes best suited to your outfit (and the event), here are our top takeaways to ensure comfort and style on race day;
- Check the weather forecast, take more layers for the rain and cold, and opt for closed-in shoes instead of open-toed sandals if there’s any chance of rain.
- Mind the grass; if you know you’ll be navigating grassy terrain all day, opt for block heels and wedges over stiletto heels that could sink in the grass.
- For the chicest race day outfit, make sure your entire look, everything from your hat or fascinator to your shoes for the races, feels balanced, complementary and intentional.
Shop race day shoes at Ravel
With race season in full swing, why not shop for the perfect shoes for your next race day visit at Ravel? From chic heels to stylish flats and perfect platforms, locating your perfect race day shoe has never been easier! Looking for race day footwear fitting for a spring race? Then why not explore our boots collection?
