Now that the sun is shining, there's no better way to enjoy the weather than a day out at the races. Whether you're headed to the Royal Ascot, York Racecourse or any of the other prominent horse races taking place this year, it's important to find a flattering dress for the occasion. To make life easy, we've found the best dresses for the races UK.
Wondering what to wear for a day at the races? As some events have a particularly strict dress code, we've also put together a guide on how to dress for the occasion. We've taken this in mind as we've selected our list of the best dresses for the races.
The best dresses for the races UK at a glance:
• Our favourite dress for the races: Bardot Midi Dress in Clipped Jacquard - Buy now on Coast
• Best popular dress for the races: Lace High Neck Midaxi Shirt Dress - Buy now on M&S
• Best universal dress for the races: V-Neck Belted Pleated Midi Waisted Dress - Buy now on M&S
When it comes to finding an occasion dress for older ladies, you may want to choose something that you're able to wear again at another event. In terms of styling, a dress that is timeless, elegant and classic can never go wrong. You can always accessorise with varying shoes, fascinators and bags to keep your outfit up to date.
Additionally, looking at the ladies in the Royal Family and taking notice of how they dress may serve as some inspiration for how to dress. Kate Middleton dresses are, as always, fabulous examples of how it's done. So, if you were wanting to shop for the best dresses for the races, take a look at our picks below.
The best dresses for the races UK
Our favourite dress for the races
www.coastfashion.com
We are in love with this Bardot Midi Dress in Clipped Jacquard from Coast in a beautiful pink floral print that's just perfect for the summer. In a classic silhouette, style this stunning dress with pink accessories such as the best fascinator, the best shoes and the best bag. If you're not keen on showing your shoulders, or the race you're attending has a strict dress code, why not pair it with a smart jacket or bolero?
Style me with: Satin Trim Cropped Jacket
Sizes: 8 - 18
Best popular dress for the races
www.marksandspencer.com
A style that's selling quickly at Marks & Spencer, the Lace High Neck Midaxi Shirt Dress from Monsoon is a popular choice this summer. Featuring a rich green colourway with intricate lace detailing, it's the perfect choice for a day at the races, but one that you can wear again and again.
Sizes: 8 - 24
Best universal dress for the races
www.marksandspencer.com
This style of V-Neck Belted Pleated Midi Waisted Dress from Hobbs would be universally flattering on just about anyone. Creating a fabulous silhouette, with a structured waist to a floaty flared-out skirt, reviewers say they were impressed with the style and quality of this dress. In a bright blue, you'll be able to wear this dress across all seasons, and it's a colour that looks wonderful on all.
Style me with: Shona Fascinator
Sizes: 6 - 18
Customer review: "A really gorgeous dress, so comfortable to wear and it does look stunning."
Best understated dress for the races
www.coastfashion.com
In a muted shade of neutral blush, the Sleeveless Tux Wrap Fluid Midi Dress from Coast is the picture of understated elegance. Not wanting to stand out too much, but still wanting to make an impression? This is definitely the dress for you. It's also available to shop in navy, and either choice would be a fabulous choice for the races. Dressing it up with a sophisticated fascinator is a must.
Style me with: Teagan Fascinator
Sizes: 8 - 18
Best summer dress for the races
www.oasisfashion.com
This Lace Trim High Neck Chiffon Floral Midi Dress from Oasis is a brilliant option for a summer day at the races, or as your next wedding guest dress. With so many gorgeous colours in this print, you could match your accessories to either green or purple, varying them for a fresh new look each time.
Style me with: Diamond Mesh Overlay Pillbox Fascinator
Sizes: 6 - 18
Best trending dress for the races
www.johnlewis.com
This Renee Midi Floral Silk Dress from Hobbs has been getting a lot of attention at John Lewis, and it's no wonder why. A trending choice, the luxurious silk fabric decorated with a delicate floral print is a perfect choice for an occasion. Featuring blouson sleeves and a universally flattering silhouette, don't blame us if you get mistaken for a Royal in this stunning dress!
Sizes: 6 - 20
Customer review: "This dress is beautifully made in silk, which flows and drapes as you move and made me feel very confident. The fit is perfect. I'm a 8 top and 12 bottom. I like it so much that I will definitely wear it again and feel it was very good value."
Best versatile dress for the races
www.karenmillen.com
In a pop of bright pink, with colour choices of white and black, this Structure Crepe Drape Side Midaxi Dress is elegant, sophisticated and versatile. There are a variety of ways you could style this again to make it up to date for another event, but we love this dress for race day. Once again, if sleeveless isn't your style, you could always wear it with a matching jacket to create a look that's right for you.
Style me with: Structured Crepe Belted Wide Shoulder Longline Blazer
Sizes: 6 - 16
Best affordable dress for the races
www.sosandar.com
You can never go wrong with a polka dot print, and this Ivory and Black Spot Print Fit and Flare Dress from Sosandar is no exception. Whether you dress it up with pops of colour, such as a red fascinator or wear smart black accessories for the occasion, it's a timeless choice. As the most affordable dress on our list, it's definitely one to consider.
Sizes: 6 - 16
Best timeless dress for the races
www.karenmillen.com
The Compact Stretch Roll Neck Pencil Dress also comes in blush, but we are loving it in this mint green colourway. It's almost reminiscent of styles from the past with up-to-date design features, making it a timeless classic that you can return back to again. Smart, sophisticated and polished are only a few words to describe this Karen Millen dress.
Sizes: 6 - 16
FAQs
How to dress for the races UK?
In general, dresses of modest length are ideal, and we recommend opting for pastel colours and floral patterns. When choosing your dress, we also suggest considering the weather; a summer race will likely be scorching hot, so opt for a summer dress that'll keep you cool and comfortable all day long.
Smart dress is the generally accepted dress code for all races. So, a longer-length cocktail dress may also work here. However, some events, such as Royal Ascot, request that racegoers adhere to stricter rules. Each race will have different rules, so we recommend checking the event's website before attending. Royal Ascot stipulates the following:
• Dresses and skirts should be of modest length, falling just above the knee or longer
• Tops and dresses should have straps of one inch or greater
• Midriffs must be covered
As well as taking inspiration from Kate Middleton, you may want to look at other women in the Royal Family. We couldn't help but take notice of the Duchess of Edinburgh, who's shown off her sense of style at various royal events. The best Sophie Wessex fashion dupes may also give you an idea of what to wear for a day at the races.
Marina Avraam is the Deputy Commercial Content Editor for Yours. Hobbies include (but are not limited to) finding the best fashion dupes, buying every iteration of Adidas Gazelles and listening to celebrity podcasts every hour of every day.
