The Wissington Pillbox
Navy
£109.00
The Wissington Pill Box offers a refined finishing touch for formal occasions. Understated and elegant, its clean silhouette reflects the timeless appeal... Continue reading
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Royal Ascot is one of the most iconic dates in the British social calendar, where world-class racing meets uncompromising dress codes and exceptional style.
Whether you’re attending for the first time or refining your race-day wardrobe, knowing exactly what to wear to Royal Ascot is essential—not just for etiquette, but for confidence.
In this guide, Hicks & Brown shares expert insight into Royal Ascot dress codes, outfit ideas for each enclosure, and how to choose the perfect hat to complete your look.
Royal Ascot is renowned for its strict dress codes, which vary depending on the enclosure you are in. Read on to hear our top tips.
ROYAL ENCLOSURE
- Morning dress required for men
- Structured hats required for women
- No fascinators
QUEEN ANNE ENCLOSURE
- Formal suits for men
- Dresses or tailoring for women
- Hat or substantial headpiece required
VILLAGE ENCLOSURE
- Slightly relaxed tailoring
- Stylish but less rigid interpretation
WINDSOR ENCLOSURE
- Smart daywear
- Hats encouraged but optional
"In our experience, the biggest mistake guests make is underestimating how structured Ascot style is. Even in relaxed enclosures, polish matters". Alice & Rosie, Co-Founders, Hicks & Brown.
What to wear to royal Ascot: For Women: Ideas
- Midi dress + structured blazer + statement hat
- Tailored jumpsuit + wide brimmed hat
- A-line dress + tonal fascinator alternative hat
What to wear to Royal ascot: For men: Ideas
- Morning coat + waistcoat + striped trousers (Royal Enclosure)
- Tailored three-piece suit + silk tie (Queen Anne/Village)
- Lightweight summer suit + pocket square (Windsor)
Choosing the right hat for Royal Ascot is about balance, proportion, and understanding the enclosure you’re attending. The best styles don’t overwhelm an outfit—they complete it.
At Hicks & Brown, we design occasion hats that combine structure with wearability, helping you feel confident throughout the day.
Start with the enclosure dress code
Your enclosure will determine your hat choice.
For the Royal Enclosure, structured hats with a defined shape are essential, as fascinators are not permitted. A wide-brim or formal hat works best here.
In the Queen Anne and Village Enclosures, you have more flexibility. Mid-sized brims and refined silhouettes work well while still keeping a polished feel.
For Windsor, styles can be more relaxed, though hats remain a key part of the Ascot tradition.
Focus on proportion, not trends
A good Ascot hat should balance your outfit rather than compete with it.
If your outfit is detailed, choose a simpler hat. If your look is minimal, you can opt for something more sculptural or statement-led. The goal is harmony, not excess.
Keep your outfit cohesive
Your hat should feel like part of a complete look.
Neutral tones like navy, oat, and black are timeless and versatile, while tonal dressing creates a modern, refined finish.
Comfort matters
Royal Ascot is a full-day event, so comfort is essential. A well-made hat should feel secure, lightweight, and stable throughout the day without constant adjustment.
Hicks & Brown styling approach
The best Ascot hats go beyond dress codes—they elevate your entire look. A well-chosen piece adds confidence, structure, and individuality, ensuring your outfit feels considered from start to finish.
- Comfort is key: Ensure your outfit is not only stylish but also comfortable for a full day of events.
- Weather considerations: Be prepared for unpredictable weather. A light, elegant coat or a stylish umbrella can be practical additions.
- Express your style: While adhering to the dress code, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through your outfit choices.
- Coordination: Ensure your outfit is well-coordinated from head to toe. This includes matching your hat to your dress and shoes to your belt.
- Wearing trainers or casual loafers
- Choosing hats that are too small for the Royal Enclosure
- Overly revealing silhouettes in formal enclosures
- Ignoring grass-friendly footwear.
Royal Ascot style is about more than rules—it’s about confidence, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
The right hat doesn’t just complete your outfit; it defines it.
The Wissington Pillbox
Camel
£109.00
The Wissington Pill Box offers a refined finishing touch for formal occasions. Understated and elegant, its clean silhouette reflects the timeless appeal... Continue reading
The Wissington Pillbox
Black
£109.00
The Wissington Pill Box offers a refined finishing touch for formal occasions. Understated and elegant, its clean silhouette reflects the timeless appeal... Continue reading
The Ophelia Headband
Ivory
£42.00
Refined and effortlessly elegant, this ivory white linen hairband is a timeless addition to your SS26 wardrobe. Crafted from breathable, lightweight linen,... Continue reading
The Juliet Bow
Ivory
£35.00
Elegant and timeless, this ivory linen bow hair clip is designed to complement any look with ease. The soft neutral shade makes... Continue reading
The Ophelia Headband
Navy
£42.00
Classic with a contemporary edge, this navy blue linen hairband is a versatile staple for SS26. The deep, rich tone offers a... Continue reading
The Juliet Bow
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£35.00
Timeless with a polished edge, this navy linen bow hair clip is a versatile addition to your accessory collection. The deep navy... Continue reading
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Soft and romantic, this blush linen hairband brings a delicate pop of colour to your SS26 accessories. Made from breathable linen, its... Continue reading
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Yes, hats are an essential part of Royal Ascot dress code for most enclosures. In the Royal Enclosure and Queen Anne Enclosure, women are required to wear a hat or headpiece with a minimum base diameter. In more relaxed areas like Windsor, hats are not strictly mandatory but are still strongly encouraged as part of the tradition and overall style of the event.
Fascinators are not permitted in the Royal Enclosure. Instead, guests are expected to wear a full hat with a solid base and defined structure. In other enclosures such as Queen Anne or Village, more flexible headpieces may be allowed, but a hat is still the safest and most appropriate choice for meeting dress code expectations.
Royal Ascot has a formal dress code that varies by enclosure. Women typically wear dresses or tailored outfits paired with hats, while men wear morning dress or smart tailoring depending on the area. The key is polished, occasion-appropriate styling that respects traditional British dress codes while allowing personal expression through colour and accessories.
The Royal Enclosure has the strictest dress code. Men are required to wear morning dress with waistcoat and tie, while women must wear formal daywear with a hat. There are also rules around dress length, strap width, and overall formality, making it the most traditional and regulated area of the event.
The best hats for Royal Ascot are structured, well-balanced, and proportionate to your outfit. Wide-brim hats are popular for formal enclosures, while mid-sized structured hats work well for slightly less formal areas. The key is choosing a hat that complements your outfit rather than competing with it, while still meeting dress code requirements.
