In that week that managed to give us both sweltering sun and flash storms, Royal Ascot has returned for another year, bringing it with it some outstanding event dressing. Ascot is, after all, the most formal event in the British calendar and as the royals, celebs and guests arrive in Berkshire, this year’s best dressed prove that following the strict dress code doesn’t have to mean settling for simplicity.
Bright summer days call for, well, bright, sunny clothes (and you’re more than likely to spot a statement fascinator or two), but this year more than ever, tradition is being eschewed in favour of a contemporary take on occasionwear. So what’s on the cards this Royal Ascot? Expect to see eye-catching patterns, rainbow hues and of course, plenty of bold accessories to complete the best outfits.
Just when we thought we’d seen the last of Barbiecore, pink is undoubtedly the colour of the moment, as seen on Queen Camilla on day two, and Princess Beatrice who opted for a stylish ditsy dress by Beulah, a resin handle bag from Urban Outfitters (no less) and topped with a bright fuschia headband from Juliette Botterill. Texture also played a role in many of the most stylish looks, from eccentric feather detailing to floral embellishments dressing up simple looks (but more on thoset later). So, whether you’re heading to the race course or looking for inspiration for your next wedding guest outfit, the Ascot fashion crowd are providing solid inspiration for formal dressing.