Going to a horse racing event is a hugely exciting occasion for anyone to enjoy. Yet, if you haven’t been to races before, you might wonder what clothes you should wear.
Look at Guidelines for the Specific Event
Not all horse racing events are the same in terms of how spectators are expected to dress. Therefore, it makes sense to look into the details of the race you are planning to watch.
The truth is that most racecourses are more relaxed about the clothing that they permit than you might think. However, some of the biggest events do have certain guidelines. For example, the Royal Ascot Style Guide for 2020 explains the elegant, formal clothing that they expect to see.
If you look at the Kentucky Derby, you will see that there are no set rules for what you need to wear. However, female spectators tend to use spring dresses and Southern Belle-style headwear. Men wear bold, spring clothing in tropical or pastel colors. You didn’t need to know anything about the types of bets for Kentucky Derby horses to enjoy a stylish day out here.
The Dubai World Cup is another major horse racing event where spectators go to a lot of effort to look great. The official guideline here is for a smart-casual look, which leaves you with quite a lot of leeway in what you decide to wear. Jeans and sneakers are among the items you shouldn’t wear here, though.
Another chance to look stylish comes at the annual Pegasus World Cup. This glamorous event in Florida is a terrific showcase for cool hats and fresh, colorful dresses in cool fabrics. The men who attend can stay cool in the warm weather by choosing the likes of lightweight suits in tropical colors and short-sleeved shirts.
Stay Comfortable
Exotic hats, high heels, and extravagant dresses make for eye-catching photos of a special day like this, but not everyone feels comfortable with this sort of clothing. Remember that many of these events involve several races that are spread out over several hours. You may also dine there and enjoy a few drinks.
Thankfully, you can still look great with a more practical and comfortable look. For instance, ladies may choose a smaller hat and a fresh, pastel-colored dress for the Kentucky Derby. Gents going to a race in Dubai might like to stay cool in a short-sleeved but elegant shirt. They may also like a flexible outfit that makes it easy to take off their jacket and tie if the weather gets too hot.
Your footwear is also important. In some racecourses, you could be on your feet for several hours or have to walk across uneven grass or dirt surfaces. If you want to look good in high heels then it makes sense to pack a pair of flats in your bag just in case you need them.
Check the Weather Forecast
Many of the most exciting horse racing meetings around the world are scheduled for spring and summer. There is something undeniably exciting about heading to an event like this in your best spring fashionwear and enjoying the sun while the horses run.
However, it is also worth remembering that unpredictable weather can cause you to regret your fashion choices. The horses will still run if it rains, so taking along an umbrella with you is a wise move.
The 2018 Kentucky Derby was run in heavy, persistent rain but it will only be called off if lightning strikes the area. British races are also highly susceptible to rain at any time of year, while in Dubai you may be more concerned about taking precautions due to the sun.
The combination of strong sun and possible rain helps to explain why wide-brimmed hats and umbrellas are essential accessories at many meetings. Rather than try to sneak them in without anyone noticing, it is best to design your outfit with these things in mind.