What To Wear To The Races

Fascinator, Debenhams; Top, Uniqlo; Skirt, L.K.Bennett; Lockett Bag, Jimmy Choo

‘What do I wear to the races!?’ is a text I receive at least once a week from April onward from my friends. The gates open and my inbox quickly fills up with requests for outfit ideas, styling options and ideas from my girls.

And yet, if there’s one thing that’s pretty clear when it comes to me; apart from my love of ankle boots, my Dalmatian obsession and the fact that I’m never not thinking of a life in LA. It’s that I’m not too good at dressing up for days or nights going “out-out.” Or, at least that's how I feel.

After this never-ending winter I truly feel as though I've lost any type of 'glam' I might have had. Which is why I've gone all in with outfit ideas for the races this year, from metallic mirrored dresses that'll quite literally dazzle (no kira-kira required) to jewel-hued options. I've put together four top-to-toe looks so you'll feel like you're winning even if your horse doesn't.

Finding the right look that’s you, which makes you feel like the best version of yourself: strong, sassy, sexy (if you wish) and most importantly confident in yourself. Over the years I’ve tried out everything at the races. I’ve gone all-out and a little OTT, I’ve also tried to play it a little too cool and ended up a little too casual for the dress code.

Which is why, when a day at the races was proposed I went all in with my prep, well as ‘in’ as my old-soul self would allow, and I thought I’d share four of my favourite top-to-toe looks for this race season (partially to point pals in the direction of this post as I’ve already received three messages just this morning alone…). Options that tick off the summer's biggest trends: from straw totes to polka dot prints and strong sunglass options.

As long-term readers will know I love to get my cost-per-wear for each look down to a minimal so when it comes to races season I like to opt for something that can be worn for different occasions afterwards. Whether it’s picking a shoe that’ll go just as well with your raw hem jeans and a blazer for brunch with the girls or, a dress that’ll work just as well when worn to a family wedding year: clever choices to make your wardrobe work for you.

So, whether you’re heading Cheltenham, Ascot or Epsom Derby Hospitality get #CloserToTheAction and show off your chosen look….

Oval Feather Occasion Hat, John Lewis; Lyocell and Silk Dress, H&M; Kilo Mules, Topshop; Browbar Sunglasses, Topshop

Bow Hairband Fascinator, John Lewis; Gold Teardrop Earrings, New Look; Polka Dot Jumpsuit, £29.99, Zara; Straw Tote, Zara; Strappy Mules, Topshop

Teardrop Fascinator, John Lewis; Lia Woven Clutch, Sophie Anderson; Diagonal Stripe Dress, Topshop; Cat Eye Sunglasses, Zara; Carina Canvas Wedge Espadrilles, Castañer

Side Up Occasion Hat, John Lewis; Ludlow Slingbacks, Sam Edelman; Ovoid Plisse Midi Dress, Topshop; Mismatched Earrings, Marks & Spencer; Geometric Cross Body Bag, Marks & Spencer