Royal Ascot Hat Guide
Royal Ascot, established in 1711 by Queen Anne, is renowned not only for its prestigious horse racing but also for its rich tradition of sartorial elegance, particularly the distinctive hats that attendees don. Over the centuries, these headpieces have evolved from simple accessories to elaborate fashion statements, reflecting both personal style and adherence to the event's esteemed dress codes. Understanding the historical significance, specific guidelines, and contemporary trends of hat-wearing at Royal Ascot is essential for those aiming to honor its heritage while showcasing individual flair.
What is the origin of Royal Ascot?
The tradition of wearing flamboyant hats and headdresses at Royal Ascot, one of Britain's most prestigious horse racing fixtures, dates back to the early 19th century. Royal Ascot's beginnings were as a way for the upper classes to display their wealth and status. At first, they were worn by men as formal accessories, but as time went on, women became increasingly involved, adding their unique flair and creativity.
Over the years, the tradition has become firmly established as a feature of Royal Ascot fashion. Now it's not only about elegance and high fashion but also about self-expression and creativity. Women who attend Royal Ascot will often carefully select their hats or fascinators to complement their outfits, sometimes even planning their entire ensemble around their chosen piece of headwear. The hats and fascinators have become an iconic part of the event, attracting both national and international attention for the variety and extravagance of their designs.
Early origins: The tradition of wearing hats for Royal Ascot dates back to the early 19th century, when the event became popular with the aristocratic and upper class. In the early days, hats were worn by both men and women as part of their formal attire. Men wore top hats and bowler hats, while women began wearing bonnets and other elaborate headdresses.
Victorian era influence: Royal Ascot cemented its reputation as a fashionable event where high society gathered to watch horse racing during the Victorian era (1837-1901). Womenswear, including ascot hats, became more elaborate and embellished. Flowered, ribbed and feathered bonnets were common, reflecting the Victorian fascination with nature and femininity.
The Edwardian era: At the beginning of the 20th century, hats continued to evolve with the changing trends in fashion. The Edwardian Era (1901-1910) saw a shift towards larger, more extravagant ascot hats for ladies, often featuring wide brims, intricate lace and embellished with silk flowers and feathers. The ascot hat became a symbol of social status and a fashion statement.
The modern era: By the middle of the 20th century, Royal Ascot had firmly established itself as one of the most important events in the British social calendar. Women began experimenting with bolder and more innovative hat designs, pushing fashion boundaries. Pillbox hats and geometric shapes became popular in the 1960s, influenced by Mod fashion.
Contemporary trends: Today, creativity, variety and extravagance are the hallmarks of the Royal Ascot hats and ascot fascinators (small decorative headpieces). Women often commission hats to be made to measure or choose from a wide range of designer pieces to complement their outfits. With hat designers gaining recognition for their innovative designs, the event has become a showcase for millinery talent.
What is an ascot hat?
An "Ascot hat" typically refers to a type of formal men's hat that was popular in the late 19th century and early 20th century. It's named as royal ascot hats or hats for ascot races after the Royal Ascot horse racing event in England, where such hats were traditionally worn as part of formal attire. The Ascot races hat is a type of soft felt hat with a narrow brim and a rounded crown, similar to a bowler hat. Ascot hats are usually made of felt, which can vary in colour, but often includes the traditional shades of black, grey or brown.
What are the rules for ascot hats?
Special rules apply to ascot headwear and ascot hats for ladies, particularly in the Royal Enclosure where the dress code is most formal. To ensure visibility and prominence, hats must have a base of at least 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. Fascinators are allowed, but they must also have a solid base with a diameter of at least 4 inches (10 cm). The guidelines emphasise that fascinators should be substantial enough to be visible from the front and are typically worn on the front or side of the head.
The rules aim to maintain the event's sense of tradition and elegance. They ensure that headwear complements the formal attire expected in the Royal Enclosure, where attendees are encouraged to dress with the utmost style and sophistication.
Which hats are allowed at Royal Ascot?
When choosing a hat for Royal Ascot, aim for a design that complements the formal and festive atmosphere of the event. Classic styles, such as wide-brimmed hats, are always a safe choice, while avant-garde or uniquely crafted pieces can make a bold statement within the dress code guidelines. Avoid overly casual styles or novelty hats, as they may detract from the event’s elegance. For women, hats should harmonize with the outfit’s color palette and proportions, enhancing the overall look without overwhelming it. Men attending the Royal Enclosure must wear a traditional top hat, typically in black or grey, which should be paired with formal morning dress. Finally, ensure your hat is comfortable and secure, as the long day and outdoor setting can pose challenges for poorly fitting headwear. At Royal Ascot, the type of ascot hat and ascot millinery you can wear depends on the enclosure you're inside. Here's a more detailed look at the requirements for each of the enclosures:
Royal Enclosure
Hats or substantial headpieces with a solid base of 4 inches (10 cm) or more in diameter are mandatory. Fascinators are not allowed. Hat styles should complement a formal, modest dress or outfit.
Queen Anne Enclosure
No specific sizing required, but hats are encouraged. Wide-brimmed hats, pillbox hats and other formal hats and fascinators are appropriate. Creative and elegant styles are encouraged, offering more flexibility in design.
Village Enclosure
Hats are encouraged but not required. Wide-brimmed hats, pillbox hats and other formal hats and fascinators are appropriate.
Windsor Enclosure
There’s no strict dress code, but hats or fascinators are a common and welcomed accessory for women.
Do you have to wear a hat to Royal Ascot?
Yes, the wearing of ascot hats or fascinators is an important part of the ladies' dress code at Royal Ascot, particularly in the Royal, Queen Anne and Village Enclosures where it is compulsory. In the Windsor Enclosure, although it is encouraged but not compulsory, the majority of visitors choose to wear ascot style hats in keeping with the traditional and stylish atmosphere of the event.
Who should wear an ascot hat?
An Ascot hat is ideal for anyone attending Royal Ascot or similar formal events who wants to embrace elegance and follow traditional dress codes. Here are some of the scenarios and people who might be seen wearing an ascot:
Weddings: The groom and the groomsmen will sometimes wear an ascot as part of the formal wedding attire, particularly in the morning dress.
Formal events: People attending high society events such as horse racing (eg Royal Ascot), garden parties or formal luncheons may wear an ascot for an added touch of elegance.
Fashion enthusiasts: An ascot may be worn as a stylish accessory by those who appreciate vintage or classic styles.
Actors and Performers: Ascots may be worn as part of a costume by those involved in period dramas or plays set in times when ascots were more common.
Although traditionally associated with men, ascots can also be worn by women seeking a unique and elegant accessory for formal occasions.
Ascot Hat Suggestions From Merve Bayindir Millinery
Zanzibar Fascinator
The Zanzibar Fascinator is a handmade, button-shaped black hat designed for bold elegance. It features a sinamay base, a dramatic ostrich feather pompom, and a full veil adorned with rhinestones for added sparkle and allure. Perfect for events like Royal Ascot or fashion gatherings, it exudes sophistication and style. Crafted in London, each piece is made to order and includes a custom hat box, ensuring exclusivity and quality.
Timber Wide Brim Hat
The Timber Wide Brim Hat is an asymmetric, bold yellow sinamay design with a graceful left tilt. It features two vibrant pink buntal stripes intersecting at a dark blue bead cluster, adding contrast and texture. Perfect for summer events, garden parties, or races like Royal Ascot and Derby, this handmade hat exudes elegance and style. Crafted in London, it combines dynamic design with timeless sophistication.
Sol Hat
The Sol Hat is a deep blue, disk-shaped wide-brim fascinator crafted from lightweight sinamay. It features two layered blue flowers with bold black and red accents and an orange ostrich quill for added elegance. Perfect for formal occasions like Royal Ascot and garden parties, this handmade hat combines timeless sophistication with modern flair. Made in London.
Santo Fascinator
The Santo Fascinator is an elegant white sinamay hat adorned with cascading silk satin jasmine flowers and vibrant green goose feather leaves. Its dynamic floral design adds movement and lightness, making it ideal for weddings, garden parties, or Royal Ascot. Handmade in London, this piece blends timeless charm with sophistication.
Tantum Wide Brim Hat
The Tantum Wide Brim Hat is a light blue sinamay design adorned with intersecting white buckram lines and a sparkling cluster of white crystal beads. Elegantly tilted to the right, it offers a chic and refined look, perfect for weddings, garden parties, and formal events. Handmade in London, it combines sophistication with contemporary style.
Onyx Fascinator
The Onyx Fascinator features a light blue button-shaped base covered in smooth crinoline fabric, adorned with delicate fabric flowers and shaded leaves. The striking translucent ribbon rises in a graceful spiral, adding height and drama. This sophisticated piece, ideal for weddings and Royal Ascot, combines elegance with playful charm. Handmade in London, it offers a refined yet dynamic silhouette.
Discover the Perfect Hat for Royal Ascot at Merve Bayindir Millinery
Add the finishing touch to your Royal Ascot ensemble with a stunning ascot hat from designer Merve Bayindir Millinery. Our exquisite collection of hand-crafted Royal Ascot hats will ensure that you're sure to make a statement at this prestigious event. Each piece is meticulously crafted to offer both sophistication and flair, from elegant wide-brimmed designs to chic pillbox styles. Embodying timeless elegance and modern luxury, find the perfect hat to complement your Ascot attire. Don't just attend Royal Ascot - arrive in style with Merve Bayindir Millinery.