Royal Ascot is as renowned for its fashion as it is for its racing. Every June, thousands descend on Berkshire in their finest attire, turning the racecourse into one of the most anticipated style showcases of the British social calendar. But with dress codes to navigate and trends evolving each season, deciding what to wear can be a minefield.
Three years ago, Daniel Fletcher, recognised for heading up Mithridate and Fiorruci, became Royal Ascot's first-ever creative director, reinforcing fashion's central role in the event. Since then, he has overseen the annual Royal Ascot Handbook, a style guide designed to help racegoers navigate the dress codes while embracing contemporary trends and personal expression.
The handbook itself has become a key part of the Royal Ascot build-up. The Art of Dressing Well is Daniel's third annual guide to race-day style. This year's edition is fronted by British model and long-time Royal Ascot attendee Erin O'Connor, who appears on the cover and in the campaign's "Think Outside the Box" editorial. The 2026 handbook also marks a first for the event, introducing Royal Ascot's inaugural official Colour of the Year, "Bright Tomato" - a vibrant orange-red shade selected to reflect emerging fashion trends and encourage racegoers to experiment with bold colour. According to Ascot, the guide was created to celebrate "personal expression within the framework of tradition", offering inspiration that balances the event's sartorial heritage with a more modern approach to occasion dressing.
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To help racegoers strike the perfect balance between elegance, individuality and tradition, Royal Ascot's creative director Daniel Fletcher shares his expert advice on dressing for this year's event with H! Fashion:
What are the biggest style trends you're expecting to see at Royal Ascot this year?
Every year at Royal Ascot there is always a few trends that stand out as a big hit, we’re still seeing lots of love for more grown-up romantic florals and polka dots on SS26 catwalks but we’re also seeing a shift towards stronger, more confident colour, especially towards Bright Tomato which is The Royal Ascot Colour of the Year for 2026 as it emerges as a key shade in occasionwear and bringing a fresh new feel to the Royal Ascot palette.
When putting together a Royal Ascot outfit, what's the one thing people should prioritise above all else?
Of course, the dress code is an important part of Royal Ascot and should always be your starting point. But I’m always keen to remind people that there’s so much room for creativity within those guidelines. Whether it’s through colour, tailoring, millinery or accessories, there are countless ways to express your personal style while still dressing appropriately for your enclosure. My advice would always be to familiarise yourself with the dress code in advance, then have fun finding a look that works within it and feels completely your own.
How can guests balance personal style with Royal Ascot's traditional dress codes (particularly Royal Enclosure)?
People often assume that dressing for Royal Ascot means abandoning their personal style, but the best looks are usually the ones that feel authentic to the wearer. My advice would be to start with the colours and silhouettes you already know suit you, and then adapt them to the specific dress code of the enclosure. For example, if you're someone who usually lives in tailored separates, the Royal Enclosure doesn't mean you suddenly have to wear a traditional floral dress. Instead, you could opt for an elegant matching skirt suit or a beautifully tailored midi-length dress with clean lines that reflect your usual aesthetic while remaining dress-code compliant. Equally, if you love statement dressing, you can embrace bold colours, polka dots or dramatic accessories, provided your outfit meets the hemline, strap and hat requirements.
What pieces or accessories instantly elevate a Royal Ascot look?
Of course, with a hat being a significant part of the dress code, I feel this element is the final piece which instantly elevates an outfit into the special-occasion territory that Royal Ascot is known for. It's often the finishing touch that takes a look from simply elegant to truly event-worthy. If you're opting for a bold hat or statement headpiece, I'd recommend letting it take centre stage and keeping the rest of your outfit relatively understated.
What's your biggest do - and biggest don't - when dressing for Royal Ascot?
DO - have fun! Royal Ascot is a historical institution, yes, but it’s also a celebration of sensibility and style - for anyone who hasn’t attended before, it’s a truly magical day full of joy and British tradition. For some more practical advice - stay clear of stiletto heels because of the grass grounds, and wear something that you truly feel confident in.
© Royal Ascot
© Royal Ascot
© Royal Ascot
© Royal Ascot
