As summer approaches in the city, our nation gears up for some of its most anticipated sporting events, and here at Style’n’Snitch we know it’s never too early to start planning your outfit.
The Cartier Queen’s Cup Final, Royal Ascot, Wimbledon and the Henley Regatta are just a few of the most coveted tickets out there, and whether you like it or not, each event’s strict dress code is deeply rooted in its longstanding tradition. If you can master the rules for these, you should be ready to take on the rest of the season’s soirees with ease. Read on to make sure you don’t get turfed off the green before you even reach the playing field.
Cartier Queen’s Cup Final – June 17th
What’s the deal?
One of the most exclusive invites out there, the Cartier Queen’s Cup Final is the place to see and be seen. Without a doubt the country’s most exclusive polo event, expect to see a rather notable cross-section of society in attendance.
What do I wear?
Wide-brimmed Panama hats and elegant summer dresses are the preferred garb, though the dress code is listed as smart-casual.
The rules may be a little more relaxed than Ascot, but you’d be hard-pressed to tell this from looking at the elegantly suited and booted clientele. In the clubhouse you can wear collared shirts with trousers, chinos or smart jeans, while tailored, knee-length shorts are allowed for men.
Royal Ascot – June 19th – 23rd
What’s the deal?
The Ascot dress code is one of the most famous in the world, woven into the event’s very fabric and rich history.
It was Beau Brummell, perhaps Britain’s first fashion icon, who at the turn of the 19th century dictated the dress for men in the Royal Enclosure, and his lavish sense of style is still reflected in Royal Ascot fashions today.
What do I wear?
In 2017, Royal Ascot successfully welcomed the jumpsuit as an acceptable item of clothing for the Royal Enclosure. Additions to the official dress code in 2018 make socks a requirement for gentlemen and specific necklines detailed as acceptable, or not, across all enclosures.
Dresses and tops must have straps and that are at least one inch wide – and avoid bardots and spaghetti straps at all costs! Hemlines must fall below the knee and fabulous hats (and specific headpieces) are of course mandatory. While the Royal Enclosure enforces the strictest rules, this is one style guide you need to study in its entirety before even considering your ensemble.
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Wimbledon – July 2nd – 15th
What’s the deal?
One of the world’s most famous sporting events, and undoubtedly one of the most scrutinised when it comes to choice of ensemble, Wimbledon is the perfect place for spotting the world’s most stylish tennis fans. In fact, we’re pretty sure liking the sport is barely a requirement, with a host of the who’s who turning up simply to enjoy the social side. And who doesn’t enjoy daytime drinking and strawberries?
What do I wear?
Different codes are enforced depending on the enclosure so it’s always good to check the details before you arrive. As a general rule of thumb, however, steer well clear of ripped jeans and trainers. Simple, classic looks are encouraged for women, and many choose to mimic the player’s dress code by opting for whites. In the Member’s Enclosure men are required to wear a lounge suit or tailored jacket and tie. Wedges are permitted and make for a super-comfy, leg-lengthening alternative to heels.
Henley Regatta – July 4th – 8th
What’s the deal?
Just a few weeks after Royal Ascot, the Henley Regatta is another important event in the British social calendar, and perhaps the most famous Regatta in the world. The etiquette is just as strict as Ascot, though the attire itself is a little less formal. It was established to “maintain the atmosphere of an English Garden party of the Edwardian period.” Unlike other events where the dress code is dependent on the enclosure, the rules must be enforced throughout the Henley Regatta.
What do I wear?
Ladies are required to wear dresses, skirts or suits and no trousers are allowed. It’s also customary to wear hats – though in this case not required. While most events see the women take the fashion reigns, this is one event where the boys are given the opportunity to stand out. Men are required to wear lounge suits, blazers and flannels with a mandatory tie or cravat, however almost all the gentlemen in attendance will opt for traditional striped blazers in a plethora of eye-catching colours. Each hue represents a different English rowing club.
Written by Thea Carley
