Racing season officially kicks off with Cheltenham Festival from 10-13 March, and whether you’re navigating spring showers or early morning chills, the right outerwear will transform your ensemble from practical to race day-ready. From timeless trenches to lightweight blazers and luxe wool coats, I’ve curated pieces that combine elegance with comfort, so you feel confident from the parade ring to the finishing line, no matter the weather.
- The suede coat: Fairfax & Favor Grace Tan Trench Coat, £895 / $1,515
- The wool coat: Karen Millen Wool Tailored Belted Midi Coat, £140 / $279
- The trench coat: M&S Autograph Pure Cotton Longline Trench Coat, £150 / $315
- The funnel-neck coat: Next Navy Blue Formal Funnel Neck Coat, £88
- The check coat: Reiss Karina Wool-Blend Check Single-Breasted Coat, £360 / $645
- The wax coat: COS Wax Jacket, £189 / $349
- The belted jacket: Really Wild Highclere Wool Safari Jacket, £575 / $780
Royal style at Cheltenham Races
The British royal family have long set the standard for race day glamour, with Zara Tindall, Olympic equestrian and daughter of Princess Anne, effortlessly combining sporting pedigree with impeccable style. She often attends Cheltenham alongside her cousin Princess Eugenie, as well as sports presenter Natalie Pinkham, showcasing beautifully tailored coats, chic hats, and sophisticated accessories.
© Getty Images
© Getty Images
© GC ImagesPrincess Diana’s nieces, Lady Eliza and Lady Amelia Spencer, have also made recent appearances, exuding understated elegance in outfits that are both modern and timeless. From luxe fabrics to sophisticated cuts, the royals’ sartorial choices set the benchmark for Cheltenham chic, proving that attending the races is as much about fashion prestige as it is about sport.
© Getty ImagesWhat to wear to Cheltenham Festival
For expert advice on what to wear at Britain’s most celebrated racing events, I spoke to stylist, personal shopper and seasoned race-day regular Lady Alice Manners.
How has race day outerwear evolved over the years, and what traditions do you think should always remain?
"I take inspiration for my race day looks from the 30s through to the 90s. A pop of colour works beautifully at Cheltenham, it is just all in the styling. The Fairfax & Favor Octavia Boots and Loxley Bag anchor the coat, while a tweed midi skirt or classic tweed trousers, finished with a stylish boater hat, create a race-day winner.
"There are a lot of similar looks at the Cheltenham Festival these days. I think the best way to quietly stand out is to go for a mix of vintage and new, like I have done with the Fairfax & Favor’s Toscana Coat and my Granny’s vintage velvet beret. I would say a hat for Cheltenham is a must. There are few events when we get to wear hats and for the sake of milliners we should embrace weeks like Cheltenham with a hat on our heads."
© Fairfax & FavorIf you had to give one piece of advice for getting race day style right, what would it be?
"For an inevitable rainy day at Cheltenham, style a waxed coat with the Sennowe Belt, add long boots, and finish with a smart brown fedora. Practical, polished, and weather-ready."
The best race day coats for 2026
Fairfax & Favor Grace Tan Trench Coat
Editor's Note:
Think Old Hollywood meets English countryside luxe. This trench is cut from the softest suede and finished with a plush Toscana collar and cuffs. It’s like wearing an heirloom but feels utterly now. Princess seams, antique brass detailing and a reversible suede-leather belt elevate your outerwear game instantly. If you prefer something a little more simple, try the Frances trench, which has been worn to Cheltenham by Zara herself.
Race day outfit: Pair with a floaty ivory midi dress, a structured leather saddle bag and knee-high tan boots. A sleek low bun and gold accents will keep it modern aristocrat chic, while loose waves will look effortless.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham: Statement but not showy, it elevates even simple tailoring or a slip dress without overpowering, and the rich tan suede will pop against bright colours on the lawn.
Karen Millen Wool Tailored Belted Midi Coat
Editor's Note:
A belted wool coat is a classic choice that you'll wear again and again. The soft wool-blend, cream colourway, wrap neck and cinched waist make it effortlessly elegant and perfect for layering.
Race day outfit: Team it with a dress and boots or wide-leg trousers, a silk blouse and statement loafer heels. A structured hat will take it into British-heritage territory.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham: Practical yet polished, if you’re hitting both early races and drinks later, this coat transitions beautifully. The belt accentuates shape, even over bulkier knits.
Next Navy Blue Formal Funnel Neck Coat
Editor's Note:
Next's wool-blend coat comes with a trending funnel neck and a classic double-breasted silhouette - think classic British tailoring with a contemporary twist. The colour is so versatile and it's smart without feeling fussy.
Race day outfit:
Layer it over a fine knit roll-neck and a wool midi skirt (deep burgundy, forest green or classic check for a nod to equestrian heritage). Add knee-high leather boots with a sturdy block heel and a structured handbag (tights optional). Finish with leather gloves and a felt fedora.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham:
The deep blue hue pairs equally well with jewel tones, neutrals and bold prints, and can be a welcome change from black or camel. The funnel collar frames the face beautifully in photos and adds extra warmth on cold spring mornings. Its timeless tailoring makes it a smart investment for future events too.
M&S Autograph Pure Cotton Longline Trench Coat
Editor's Note:
This trench coat by Autograph at M&S has all of the signature details, from its belted waist to its buttoned cuff straps, and double-breasted front. The pure cotton fabric keeps it effortless and lightweight, while the longer length adds coverage and movement.
Race day outfit: A neutral trench colour lets you experiment with unexpected shades underneath. You can't go wrong with a knitted midi dress, leather gloves, knee-high boots and a trilby hat.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham: Classic for a reason, a trench is a reliable layer for changeable spring weather and protects against showers while looking smart.
Holland Cooper The Trinity Coat
Editor's Note:
This merlot‑hued coat is the kind of outerwear that feels synonymous with race day. Rich in colour, impeccably tailored and with that signature Holland Cooper look, it combines structure with elegance.
Race day outfit:
Style with a fitted dress in cream, black or tonal burgundy, and with suede knee‑high boots and a statement headband or felt fedora. The deep merlot shade elevates neutrals beautifully and gives your look that luxe finish without going full evening wear.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham:
It’s warm enough for spring mornings but refined enough for the Club Enclosure. The rich tone feels season‑appropriate and instantly dressy, cutting through the usual navy and camel without feeling loud.
Reiss Karina Wool-Blend Check Single-Breasted Coat
Editor's Note:
If Sloane Square met the Cotswolds. This houndstooth check coat is a classic with just enough pattern to feel intentional. It's tailored with neat notch lapels and welt pockets
Race day outfit: Think a fitted midi dress and knee-high boots or black tailored trousers and a crisp roll-neck - the print does the styling for you. Matching leather gloves and a neat clutch will keep it chic.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham: The pattern is personality without trying too hard. This coat brings structure for smarter looks but works just as well thrown over a slip dress for a modern twist.
Rixo Jonah Jacquard Coat
Editor's Note:
Subtle florals and faux fur trims take centre stage here. Inspired by the 1950s, the long jacquard weave and rich faux-fur collar and cuffs lend vintage glamour.
Race day outfit: Wear this over a bias-cut satin midi in jewel tones, add heeled knee-highs and a sleek headband or statement earrings for a glamourous race day outfit.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham: It stands out without feeling overdone, and the rich texture will photograph beautifully in the afternoon light, which is half the fun at the races.
Boden Pocket Detail Coat
Editor's Note:
I'm getting Chanel vibes from Boden's ivory coat, so it will bring something a little Parisian to the paddock. The structured silhouette and statement pocket detailing give a subtle nod to the French fashion house, and it feels confident without veering too much into formal territory.
Race day outfit:
I’d style it over tailored wide-leg trousers in navy or chocolate brown with a silk blouse tucked in. There's also a matching mini dress available if the sun is forecast to come out. Add heeled boots, leather gloves and a bold headpiece. Think a structured pillbox or sculptural fascinator to play up the coat’s vintage mood. Complete the look with a swipe of red lipstick.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham:
The ivory shade will pop beautifully against the green course while pairing effortlessly with heritage checks, black, burgundy, brown or blue - making it both statement-making and surprisingly versatile.
COS Wax Jacket
Editor's Note:
If you’re after casual but still stylish and race‑ready, this checked waxed cotton car coat is your go‑to. Practical enough for unpredictable weather but cut with a neat silhouette and timeless check, it proves functionality doesn’t have to mean dull.
Race day outfit:
Wear over a fine‑knit polo and tailored trousers, or layer it over a midi dress and boots. Add simple gold accessories and a soft scarf to keep it effortless.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham:
It’s weather‑wise yet stylish and the classic check adds subtle pattern. It's a coat that actually works for both parade ring strolls and turfside pints, and you'll wear it far beyond the races.
Ralph Lauren Linen-Blend Twill Blazer
Editor's Note:
If you luck out with the weather (and it can happen in March), this is your cue to go full suit. Cut from a breathable linen blend with that signature Ralph Lauren sharpness, this new season blazer is crisp and quietly powerful.
Race day outfit:
Wear it as a full co-ord moment with matching tailored trousers in ivory, a shirt or silk camisole underneath and a structured hat. It nods to the white Lady Amelia Spencer wore in 2024, proving a suit can be just as impactful as a dress.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham:
Lightweight enough for spring sunshine but tailored enough for the occasion, it’s smart without feeling stuffy. A white suit at Cheltenham reads modern, confident and refreshingly different from the sea of tweed.
H&M Wool-Blend Cape Jacket
Editor's Note:
H&M's wool-blend cape jacket is easy to wear and moves beautifully with you. The oversized shape gives plenty of room over dresses or trousers, and the soft fabric keeps you warm without feeling heavy. Simple buttons and a clean silhouette make it a versatile layer for unpredictable spring days.
Race day outfit: Throw it over a tweed dress for a classic look or wide-leg trousers if you want to go more modern. I'd keep hair sleek and add statement earrings.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham: Comfortable, weather-ready, and effortlessly stylish, it adds interest through shape rather than embellishment. The chocolate brown works with almost any colour.
& Other Stories Tie-Belt Wool Trench Coat
Editor's Note:
A race day coat that doesn’t try too hard but still looks like you did. The trench silhouette with a cinched wait gives a flattering shape and is always chic.
Race day outfit:
Wear it over a floaty midi dress and block‑heel boots, or layer with a roll‑neck and tailored trousers. It smart enough for the parade ring and easy enough for champagne on the lawn.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham:
It’s lightweight, elegant and handles the morning chill. The neutral tone pairs effortlessly with bright or muted colours, making it a versatile pick for a day where you want to feel both comfortable and photo-ready.
Really Wild Highclere Wool Safari Jacket
Editor's Note:
Loved by the Princess of Wales no less, Really Wild is a perfect choice if you're shopping for a check jacket for Cheltenham. Practical chic over full glamour, this one has a relaxed silhouette with a belt to cinch your waist.
Race day outfit:
Layer over a fine‑knit roll neck or pussy-bow blouse and the matching wide-leg trousers, or wear it with a midi skirt and knee‑high boots for a smart but unpretentious look.
Why it’s great for Cheltenham:
Perfect for early starts and cool breezes, it gives you architectural structure without the fuss of a full coat. Comfortable enough for walking the ring but elevated enough to feel put together, it's a modern take on classic tailoring.
To dig a little deeper into race-day dressing, I turned to Marcus Fairfax Fountaine, co-founder of Fairfax & Favor, for his expert take on the coats, fabrics and trends that truly work at Cheltenham.
Which classic coat style do you think every woman should have in her wardrobe for events like Cheltenham Races?
"With the wind sweeping across Cleeve Hill, a coat becomes the focal point of any outfit at Cheltenham. For an elegant look, layer a beautifully tailored suede or tweed coat with soft, warm underlayers. Our luxurious Toscana Trench embodies a flattering, feminine silhouette with a touch of unparalleled opulence. Alternatively, a sharp blazer such as the Hazel is perfect for styling with tailored trousers and an ankle boot for a more modern approach."
Which fabrics do you always recommend for long days outdoors at the races?
"There's always a level of unpredictability around the weather, so you are best to opt for well-fitted, high-quality fabrics that provide warmth and comfort. Build your look around traditional tweeds, premium suedes, and well-crafted leather pieces. A structured coat adds a touch of understated luxury and small touches make all the difference. Consider elegant buttons, contrast stitching, or a statement belt to add interest to your outfit while staying true to the event’s aesthetic. A suede or leather tote in a complementary colour is the perfect finishing touch. Something spacious enough for your race day essentials yet sleek enough to enhance your outfit."
Are there any trends you’re loving this season that translate well to race day?
"Suede outerwear has been a defining trend in recent seasons, with trench coats in particular being a standout choice for race day dressing. It’s the kind of piece that easily becomes the outfit for the races, especially when paired with the right accessories, a beautiful boot and a crossbody bag. Our Frances Trench, available in both short and long lengths, takes that classic silhouette and elevates it in the softest suede, giving it a truly luxurious finish. It’s a piece we’ve seen worn to the races for many years, and it still feels just as relevant today."
Is there such a thing as being too fashionable for the races?
"In recent years, fashion at Cheltenham Festival has evolved into a blend of tradition and contemporary style. While classic country dressing remains at the heart of the event, we’ve seen guests becoming more expressive with colour, texture and silhouette, embracing bolder styling while still prioritising practicality. The overall look feels more fashion-forward, without losing that timeless race-day elegance Cheltenham is known for."
Are there particular colours you think shine at Cheltenham?
"Heritage hues such as rich browns, tan and camel always shine, reflecting both the countryside setting and the event’s strong equestrian heritage."
