Royal Ascot is one of the biggest British sporting events of the year. Taking place from 16-20 June in 2026, it's become as much about what you wear as it is the races, so make sure you've brushed up on the rules before choosing your outfit. Attended by royalty, celebrities and paparazzi, there's arguably nowhere more important to be sartorially savvy.
- The polka dot dress: Rixo Meera Chiffon Gown, £525 / $785
- The floral dress: Reformation Naira Dress, £278 / $278
- The white dress: Reiss Halterneck Belted Midi Dress, £198 / $355
- The red dress: Ro & Zo Mariam Cap Sleeve Maxi Dress, £149
- The butter yellow dress: Hobbs Ellie Dress, £249 / $525
- The designer dress: Zimmermann Luna Chiffon Maxi Dress, £1,075 / $1,350
The strict dress code includes rules on hem lengths, shoulder straps and headpieces, and while everyone is encouraged to dress up for the occasion, each enclosure has slightly different rules.
Royal Enclosure dress code
- Dresses and skirts should be a modest length, falling no shorter than just above the knee
- Dresses and tops must have shoulder straps with a minimum width of one inch or more
- Jackets and pashminas may be worn, but tops and dresses underneath must still comply with the dress code
- Trouser suits are permitted but should be full length and of matching material and colour
- Jumpsuits are also permitted and have the same length and shoulder strap requirements as dresses
- Hats must be worn, however, a headpiece with a minimum base of four inches is acceptable
© Dave Benett
© Getty ImagesQueen Anne Enclosure & Village Enclosure dress code
- Dresses and skirts must have shoulder or halterneck straps, there is no minimum length
- Trouser suits are permitted but should be full length and of matching material and colour
- Jumpsuits are also permitted but must fall below the knee and have shoulder or halterneck straps with a minimum width of one inch or more
- A hat, headpiece or fascinator must be worn
© WireImage
Windsor Enclosure dress code
- Attendees are encouraged to dress in smart daywear with a hat or fascinator, but there is no official dress code
Is there a theme for Royal Ascot 2026?
The Royal Ascot 2026 Handbook has been released under the creative direction of Daniel Fletcher for the third year running. It continues the shift towards inspiring racegoers to be more inventive with their ensembles, moving the focus towards outfits that represent their individual style.
For the first time, they’ve announced a colour of the year - Bright Tomato - a vibrant scarlet hue that epitomises making a statement, while silks are the fabric of the season, with a whole chapter dedicated to looks inspired by jockey silks from around the world.
The best race day dresses to shop for 2026
Boden Blouson Sleeve Lace Dress
Editor's Note:
If you loved Carole Middleton's 2025 look, this Boden midi dress is a similar style and made from the most stunning ivory lace. It also features cuffed long blouson sleeves, a button-down front and a self-tie waist, for a style that's both structured and ethereal.
Reiss Halterneck Belted Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
How chic is this halterneck dress from Reiss? Beautiful for any summer event, I love it paired with rattan accessories. Made from a lightweight linen blend, it's available in regular and petite lengths.
Ro & Zo Mariam Cap Sleeve Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
Lean into Royal Ascot's colour of the year with this Ro & Zo maxi in the perfect Bright Tomato shade. The races-ready style also features a high neckline, cap sleeves, and a lightly flared skirt.
Rixo Meera Chiffon Gown
Editor's Note:
Polka dots are timeless and always look amazing at Ascot. I love the modest yet flattering draped cut of this maxi dress from Rixo. The long sleeves are balanced by a narrow plunging neckline and the floaty skirt features a subtle slit at the back.
ME+EM Fit + Flare Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
The coral shade of this midi dress from royal favourite ME+EM is perfect for summer. Made from soft jacquard jersey with a little stretch, it features an abstract design that's a little more unique than classic florals.
Hobbs Ellie Dress
Editor's Note:
Another dress to channel Carole Middleton's butter yellow style, this one from Hobbs features cornelli-style embroidery and a flattering fit-and-flare cut. It even has pockets. Style it with white accessories.
Kitri Poppy Print Scoop Neck Midi Tea Dress
Editor's Note:
I love the poppy print and chic scoop neck cut of this floral midi dress by Kitri. The London-based independent brand values sustainability, and this is a piece you'll bring out every season.
Reformation Naira Dress
Editor's Note:
With its classic silhouette and delicate floral print, Reformation's Naira dress is such an easy win for Ascot. So easy to accessorise, just add gold jewellery, and barely there or tonal red heels.
Phase Eight Perla Satin Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Cut to look like a top and skirt, Phase Eight's vintage-inspired Perla dress has a classic A-line silhouette, monochrome colour palette, frill detail and flattering darting on the skirt.
Nobody's Child Red Reign Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Channel Princess Kate in this bright midi dress from Nobody's Child. It has a super flattering waist-defining cut with a fitted bodice and a relaxed skirt, plus a beautiful criss-cross back.
Zimmermann Luna Chiffon Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
This floral dress by Zimmermann is so elegant and perfect for a day at the races. The British brand has been worn by the Princess of Wales herself and this new season style is a gorgeous forever piece.
