If you’re heading to Cheltenham and are in need of some outfit inspiration, we’ve found the best race-day-ready buys that follow the fashion rules
Cheltenham Festival officially kicks off next Tuesday, 10th March, and runs for four days until Friday, 13th March. While there is no formal dress code, unlike some other horse races, such as Ascot, the racecourse offers a few style suggestions to ensure you’re as comfortable as can be throughout the week.
Rather than extravagant gowns or fascinators, Cheltenham style favours a more relaxed approach, with country classics such as tweed suits, fedoras and tailored coats being the most common. Think Claudia Winkleman’s wardrobe in The Traitors for inspiration.
That’s not to say you can’t wear smarter occasionwear gowns or co-ords, but as guests will be on their feet in the grass all day, comfy, appropriate footwear is best.
The Jockey Club also makes it clear that although fancy dress is permitted generally at the races (at Cheltenham’s own discretion), fancy dress is not permitted in Hospitality, restaurant facilities, or in the Club Enclosure.
If you’re heading to Cheltenham next week and are in need of some inspiration, we’ve found up our best race day buys below…
Susanna Reid channels Princess Kate’s style on GMB in ‘beautiful’ polka dot tea dress
Michelle Keegan’s new Very collection dropped a versatile and flattering must-have dress for spring
Cheltenham Festival outfit ideas
The co-ord
SHOP THE LOOK: Coast x Lisa Tan Fur Trim Premium Jacket With Wadding, £119 here and Coast x Lisa Tan Wool Blend Trouser, £79 here.
Coast has teamed up with Lisa Tan for another year to create a stylish, luxe line of raceday clothing, and we’re obsessed. This deep red set is the ideal option for Cheltenham, which can often be chilly and cloudy. Style with a matching coloured fedora and some boots for a totally chic and appropriate look.
Blazers and boots
SHOP THE LOOK: Fairfax & Favor Ophelia Honey Tan Suede Blazer, £495 here, and Regina Mahogany leather Heeled knee-high boots, £475 here.
Heading to the races doesn’t necessarily mean you have to fork out for a whole new outfit; sometimes just a new item or two is required. A simple way to make what you already own race-day-ready is to throw on a suede or tweed blazer and a pair of knee-high boots. Fairfax & Favor has some amazing styles available, and is one of Zara Tindall’s go-to brands.
Checks
SHOP THE LOOK: River Island Beige Checked Pocket Detail Jacket, £59 here, and River Island Beige Check Pleated Wide Leg Trousers, £42 here
River Island has just launched a range of race day-ready clothing featuring check co-ords, cool-girl suits and more. Our favourite from the line is this cropped blazer and check trouser combo. Paired with some oversized sunnies, a neckerchief and statement jewellery, you’re bound to end up on the best dressed list.
Polka Dots
SHOP THE LOOK: Arabella Cotton Maxi Dress, £139 here
Polka dots are still reigning supreme this year, especially when it comes to race day dressing, and polka dresses are set to be all over the racecourse this year. Although Cheltenham leans more towards checks and tartans, we think the orangey/brown tone of this polka dot midi from Boden perfectly fits the bill for this year’s races. Simply throw over a longline wool coat or thick blazer, and a pair of knee high boots.
