Spring racing fever has taken hold, and there are many pieces of the sartorial puzzle to put together.
1. The Dress
Lesson one: this is not a nightclub. The spring racing carnival is not the place for your micromini bandage dress. Nor is it the place for a strapless, sequinned minidress. The races wardrobe harks back to a more civilised way of dressing. Think afternoon high tea in days of old. That’s one of the reasons the retro ’50s flavour currently in fashion is a perfect place to start, just like this Laura Ashley dress (left). A dress with fitted bodice and full skirt is chic and elegant and will automatically make you feel more ladylike.
A colourful silk dress, perhaps with draping or pleating, or a sleek sheath, are also perfectly race-ready. The high street is filled to overflowing with suitable attire: head to Review, David Lawrence, Jigsaw and Marcs (top left) to start. A simple ’60s tunic dress is another good option (Jean Shrimpton, anyone?), just don’t go too short (she could tell you all about that). Alternatively, a chic jacket and skirt ensemble is also appropriate.
Derby Day calls for black and white, as per this cute number from Review (left). The current trend towards checks, spots and stripes works particularly well in black and white. Hats should also be black and white, and you can keep your accessories to the same theme, or add a pop of brights in either your clutch or shoes. On other days you can opt for colour: bold and beautiful or soft and subdued. And florals are always appropriate trackside.
2. The Hat
We’ve touched on these in previous posts, but remember to wear something that’s comfortable for you and won’t overwhelm. Particularly sweet this season are straw boaters, like this example from Chanel (left), which work well with a number of different styles of dress. And there is a plethora of headbands for those who don’t want to go overboard.
3. The Shoes
Remember, you’ll be walking and standing on grass for a lot of the day, so stiletto heels are problematic. Look instead for thicker heels, such as these from Milu (left), or best of all, opt for a summer wedge, which will give you the best support. Your heels don’t have to be of the most towering variety—you need to be as comfortable as you can while also looking the part—that way there’s no carrying them home at the end of the day. Shudder.
4. The Bag
You’ll be juggling champagne, tip books and bets on the day, so it’s best to keep your hands free. A clutch is a great idea, as it can be tucked under your arm when you don’t want to hold it. Go for bold colour like this one from David Lawrence (left). Alternatively, look for small, long-handled bags that can be slung over your shoulder while you’re at the betting office. A chain handle is particularly chic.
5. The Sunglasses
Don’t forget a great pair of sunnies—you’ll be outside a lot of the day in between swanning around marquees and stands, so make sure that whatever you choose goes with your whole ensemble. A pair of oversized sunglasses always looks chic, like these from Louis Vuitton (left). Oh, and remember to slather on the sunscreen before heading out.
And they’re off!
