Karen Millen’s 7 Rules of Race-Day Style
The races: one of the key events of the social
calendar - and one of the trickiest to sartorially master, what,
with the strict dress codes and hat etiquette. But help is at hand:
our guide ensures that you stay on the right side of statement
through Ascot, Epsom et al.
No. 1 Think Demure
Dress for the races as you would for weddings (with
the exception that white is allowed). The Ascot dress code forbids
strapless, off-the-shoulder, halter neck and spaghetti straps, but
it's a good rule of thumb to follow when it comes to dresses for
races for the principles it extolls of not showing too much
skin.
No. 2 Keep Hemlines Long
Tying in with the demure theme, a longer length is
infinitely more sophisticated. The chicest hem to be seen in is the
midi, as the plethora of Ladies Day dresses at Ascot in this style
attest. Elegant enough to meet the dress code, it's also
fashionable enough to make best-dressed lists.
No. 3 Go for Tailoring
For the most contemporary take on race-day style
(while still adhering to the Ascot dress code), look to pin-sharp
tailoring. Fluid wide-leg trousers teamed with a long waistcoat and
wrap blouse all in cool, crisp white equal the last word in modern
sophistication.
No. 4 Let Your Hat Shine
A fabulous hat is a must. "Opt for a natural-toned
hat, which works with anything," says milliner Yvette Jelfs, whose
designs have been worn by the Duchess of Cambridge. "Try not to
match your hat and outfit, as it looks a bit 80s." If you're foxed
by what hairstyle to wear with your hat, watch our hair masterclass
below.
No. 5 Bring A Coat
The gamble you don't want to make on the day, apart
from the one where you backed the wrong horse, is leaving the house
without a cover-up; it's Britain, the weather will inevitably turn.
Our elegant fluid citrus duster coat is the perfect lightweight
choice.
No. 6 Go Minimal
Choose delicate pieces that will complement rather
than compete with your hat: chandelier earrings that work with
fascinators may look too fussy when worn with a brimmed hat.
No. 7 Opt for Sensible
Tricky terrain demands a pragmatic approach to
footwear. The most elegant solution is the block heel. Unlike the
stiletto, these won't ruin your look by sinking into the grass.
The Race Is On - Win tickets to Ladies Day at Royal Ascot
Karen Millen is offering you tickets to Ladies Day at
Royal Ascot, on Thursday 16th June in addition to a £500 shopping
spree and a complimentary hairstyling session courtesy of Blow LTD.
Your exclusive ticket gets you and a friend a reserved table,
Pimm's reception, three-course lunch and complimentary bar for the
day. For a chance to win visit: http://www.karenmillen.com/competition
