Royal Ascot etiquette for evening hospitality in the Royal Enclosure is very different to that for the afternoon enclosures. We show here how minor changes to your outfit can make it suitable for your dinner party.
Go Longer and Deeper in Colour
For evening events, opt for floor-length or midi length dresses that look fabulous in the evening marquee. Instead of choosing pale pastel colours that look amazing in the daylight and take great photos on the lawn, opt for rich colours such as navy, midnight green, burgundy or black that look amazing in the evening lights.
Choose Fabrics That Suit Artificial Light
Silk, velvet, and satin look wonderful under indoor lighting.
Royal Ascot Outfits is covered in more detail at aimeejoycelondon.com/ready-to-wear/elegant-dresses-for-ascot/.
Swap the Hat for an Evening Headpiece
There’s no need to carry around a large hat once you’ve arrived at the marquee. Instead opt for a fascinator, or a hat clip with feathers or jewels, or even a simple updo accessory.
Rethink Your Bag and Jewellery
Instead of a handbag opt for a structured clutch for evening. Additional jewellery such as long earrings or a fine necklace around the neck completes the evening Royal Ascot look, often incorporating more embellishment than is seen on race day.
Bring a Layer for Later
Marquee venues cool down quickly once the sun goes down. A tailored wrap or an evening jacket in light fabric is the perfect accessory for later in the evening.
Check the Dress Code Requirements
Note: There are also specific dress code requirements for certain hospitality areas and many of these are detailed on the Royal Ascot website.
With a little planning, your outfit can stay until the end of the last race!