Royal Ascot is one of the biggest British sporting events of the year. Taking place from 16-20 June in 2026, it's become as much about what you wear as it is the races, so make sure you've brushed up on the rules before choosing your outfit. Attended by royalty, celebrities and paparazzi, there's arguably nowhere more important to be sartorially savvy.
- The polka dot dress: Rixo Meera Chiffon Gown, £525 / $785
- The floral dress: Reformation Naira Dress, £278 / $278
- The white dress: Reiss Halterneck Belted Midi Dress, £198 / $355
- The butter yellow dress: Hobbs Ellie Dress, £249 / $525
- The red dress: Nobody's Child Zola Midi Dress, £135 / $260
- The designer dress: Zimmermann Luna Chiffon Maxi Dress, £1,075 / $1,350
The strict dress code includes rules on hem lengths, shoulder straps and headpieces, and while everyone is encouraged to dress up for the occasion, each enclosure has slightly different rules.
Royal Enclosure dress code
- Dresses and skirts should be a modest length, falling no shorter than just above the knee
- Dresses and tops must have shoulder straps with a minimum width of one inch or more
- Jackets and pashminas may be worn, but tops and dresses underneath must still comply with the dress code
- Trouser suits are permitted but should be full length and of matching material and colour
- Jumpsuits are also permitted and have the same length and shoulder strap requirements as dresses
- Hats must be worn, however, a headpiece with a minimum base of four inches is acceptable
© Dave Benett
© Getty ImagesQueen Anne Enclosure & Village Enclosure dress code
- Dresses and skirts must have shoulder or halterneck straps, there is no minimum length
- Trouser suits are permitted but should be full length and of matching material and colour
- Jumpsuits are also permitted but must fall below the knee and have shoulder or halterneck straps with a minimum width of one inch or more
- A hat, headpiece or fascinator must be worn
© WireImage
Windsor Enclosure dress code
- Attendees are encouraged to dress in smart daywear with a hat or fascinator, but there is no official dress code
Is there a theme for Royal Ascot 2026?
The Royal Ascot 2026 theme and Look Book are yet to be released, but in recent years there has been a shift towards inspiring racegoers to be more inventive with their ensembles, moving the focus towards outfits that represent their individual style. Sustainability continued to be at the forefront and guests were encouraged to consider looking in charity shops, boutiques, vintage emporiums and resale websites for their outfits.
If you want to get your outfit for this summer sorted with plenty of time, I've found 11 beautiful dresses to shop online now. Plus, I got in touch with Daniel Fletcher, who was appointed Creative Director of the 2024 and 2025 Look Books, to share his expert styling tips.
The best race day dresses to shop for 2026
Hobbs Ellie Dress
Editor's Note:
If you loved Carole Middleton's butter yellow dress, Hobbs has just dropped a similar style this season. It features cornelli-style embroidery and a universally flattering fit-and-flare cut. It even has pockets. Style it with white accessories.
Reiss Halterneck Belted Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
How chic is this halterneck dress from Reiss? Beautiful for any summer event, I love it paired with rattan accessories. Made from a lightweight linen blend, it's available in regular and petite lengths.
Rixo Meera Chiffon Gown
Editor's Note:
Polka dots are timeless and always look amazing at Ascot. I love the modest yet flattering draped cut of this maxi dress from Rixo. The long sleeves are balanced by a narrow plunging neckline and the floaty skirt features a subtle slit at the back.
ME+EM Fit + Flare Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
The delicate floral print of this midi dress from royal favourite ME+EM reminds me of Zara Tindal's 2025 outfit. Made from 95% cotton, it's lightweight and breathable, and it pairs perfectly with a white blazer.
Pretty Lavish Alani V Neck Ruffle Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
How gorgeous is the ruffle shoulder detail on this Pretty Lavish dress? The fitted style skims the waist and hips, falling to a maxi length that also features a tiered ruffle hem. I love it styled with gold jewellery.
Kitri Poppy Print Scoop Neck Midi Tea Dress
Editor's Note:
I love the poppy print and chic scoop neck cut of this floral midi dress by Kitri. The London-based independent brand values sustainability, and this is a piece you'll bring out every season.
Reformation Naira Dress
Editor's Note:
With its classic silhouette and delicate floral print, Reformation's Naira dress is such an easy win for Ascot. So easy to accessorise, just add gold jewellery, barely there or tonal red heels and a white clutch.
Phase Eight Abigail Wrap Dress
Editor's Note:
Featuring a faux wrap bodice and delicately pleated skirt, Phase Eight's Abigal dress comes in a bestselling cut from the brand. The navy piece has an understated floral print and pairs perfectly with the matching fascinator.
Boden Arabella Cotton Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
If you're looking for a colourful polka dot dress, this Boden piece is perfection. The structured style is made from 100% cotton, and features side seam pockets plus a detachable self fabric belt.
Nobody's Child Zola Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Channel Princess Kate in this bright midi dress from Nobody's Child. It has a super flattering waist-defining cut with short blouson sleeves and a swishy midi length.
Zimmermann Luna Chiffon Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
This floral dress by Zimmermann is so elegant and perfect for a day at the races. The British brand has been worn by the Princess of Wales herself and this new season style is a gorgeous forever piece.
