Royal Ascot tightens up dress code for Royal Enclosure

Visitors to Royal Ascot this June must adhere to a strict dress code if they want to be allowed in.

The racecourse has published updated regulations on what is considered “formal day wear” for the Royal Enclosure on the orders of The Queen.

While the traditional morning dress for gentleman has always been mandatory organisers believe that the lines of what is — and what is not — appropriate for ladies have become confused of late.

Ladies must wear a hat, or at the very least a “substantial” fascinator. Halter necks, off-the-shoulder and spaghetti straps are strictly off limits — dress straps must be at least one inch thick.

Mini skirts are considered “unsuitable” and midriffs must be covered. And if trousers are to be worn they must be part of a suit and of matching material and colour.

In previous years ladies with bare shoulders have been sold pashminas on entry to Ascot. This year though no exceptions will be made and people who do not comply with the set dress regulations will be asked to leave the Royal Enclosure.

Nick Smith, spokesman for Royal Ascot, said: “There have been no fundamental changes to the dress code, we just want to clarify what is considered formal day wear.

“We do not want to discourage people from dressing fashionably, but they need to wear fashions suitable for formal day wear, not evening.

“Many people are confused as to the term ‘formal day wear’ so we are making

this clear by providing a strict dress code.”

To view the official dress code visit: www.ascot.co.uk

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