Fashion

Tradition meets style

THE FASHION LAWS OF THE ROYAL ASCOTT

From 17 to 21 June, all the British hats and fascinators (a mix of hats and hair jewellery Kate Middleton loves so much) are put on display. They head to the Royal Ascott, the fanciest race-track of the world, situated near Windsor Castle. Want to be someone in the right circles, go there.

CRISE DE COSTUME

Us women already have a hard time finding something appropriate to wear, and Royal Ascott doesn’t quite make things easier. A lot is expected of you style wise. This combined with a set of strict rules and don’t even think about not complying. You’ll be sent home upon arrival. Regardless of the fact that you’ve paid the 530 pound entrance fee. The motto’s no mercy.

WEAR THIS

Luckily, those types at Royal Ascott aren’t the worst. In order to prevent mishaps, they made a very fine collage and even a clip to show you what to wear. Even if you’re not going to bid and wave, it’s still great to know what you’re supposed to wear in such a situation. If only to be able to talk about it.

CRESSIDA AND KATE, PAY ATTENTION!

There’s a difference between the royal box and the grandstand admission (where common folk sit), but let’s keep to the royal sense of things. You aim to receive a handkiss from William or Harry, right? Because the gentlemen do that, hand-kissing. And they drink beer, don’t worry.

THE RULES!

  1. Dresses and skirts should be of appropriate length. Just above the knee but preferably longer.
  2. If you want to wear trousers, it should be full length and jacket and trousers are to be of the same material and colour.
  3. Spaghetti straps and other great material is only allowed if they’re 2,54 cm (1 inch) wide. You probably weren’t planning on doing so but showing your bare midriff or belly isn’t allowed.
  4. Hats are obligatory. You can deviate and choose a headpiece or fascinator, but they should be substantial of size. You won’t get away with a hair brooch.
  5. Then the men. They should wear morning dress, you know, that in-between suit when just any old suit wouldn’t be appropriate but a tuxedo would be a bit too much.
  6. Men’s shoes should be black. Here too (in any case when entering the Royal Enclosure) hats should be worn.

And just for some visual fun also this lovely clip in which British fussiness and stylish rock meet. Brilliant. I think I’m going to attend or either insert an Instagram drip of all the cool chicks that will parade there.