You know it's time for Royal Ascot when you get emails and see tweets telling us that certain milliners are doing particularly well. It's probably my favourite British event of the year. Not only is it a chance to see really posh women dress up to the nines - the bigger the hat, the bigger the bank balance? - but it's also the time of year, June, when the Queen, and all royals actually, pull out their pastels or brights. As you know, I'm a Royal fan, so it's a key event of the year to see them out and about, showing off their rather fabulous wardrobes.
BUT, ladies and gents, dress codes are a-changing. For this year's Ascot, 19th-23rd June, there has been small changes for the Royal Enclosure and Grandstand Enclosure. However Charles Barnett, Ascot's chief executive, assures us that "It isn't a question of elitism and not being modern in a world where there is less and less requirement to dress smartly - far from it. We want to see modern and stylish dress at Royal Ascot..."
I have to say, and I do think sometimes the Monarchy are quite slow to modernise, but Royal Ascot really is a British tradition for which I fully support a formal dress code. People expect it. Could you imagine if The Only Way Is Chelsea (or whatever it's called) turn up wearing Lipsy? No siree! It would horrify the regulars, the Royals, the commentators and me!
So, if you are heading down to Ascot this year, here's what you MUST remember...
Royal Enclosure – Ladies:
“Dresses and skirts should be of modest length defined as falling just above the knee or longer.” This replaces the less clear instruction that miniskirts are considered unsuitable.
“Hats should be worn; a headpiece which has a base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative to a hat.” This clarifies that fascinators are no longer permitted in the Royal Enclosure.
Royal Enclosure – Gentlemen:
“Gentlemen are kindly reminded that it is a requirement to wear either black or grey morning dress which must include a waistcoat and tie (no cravats), a black or grey top hat and black shoes.” This clarifies that cravats are not acceptable and that black shoes should be worn with morning dress.
Grandstand Enclosure – Ladies:
“A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times.” This replaces advice that many ladies wear hats but this is not compulsory.
“Strapless or sheer strap dresses and tops are not permitted.”
Grandstand Enclosure – Gentlemen:
“Gentlemen are required to wear a suit and tie.” This replaces the instruction that gentlemen must wear a shirt and tie, preferably with a suit or jacket.
