What to Wear to Royal Ascot 2025?

Royal Ascot is as much about high fashion as it is about horse racing. The annual meeting showcases extravagant hats and elegant attire alongside the sport. Racegoers often turn heads in eye-catching outfits. In 2025, from the official dress code requirements to fresh twists like the latest colour palettes and silhouettes, attendees are embracing both tradition and modern trends. Covering women's and men's fashion as well as specific guidelines for the Royal, Queen Anne and Village Enclosures, here is a comprehensive style guide for Royal Ascot 2025. Each section combines Ascot's exacting dress code with the fashion trends of 2025 to ensure you look impeccably appropriate yet stylishly contemporary at the races.

Merve Bayindir Millinery in Harper's Bazaar.

Summary

Key Fashion Trends to Consider for Royal Ascot 2025

Combining traditional elegance with contemporary flair, Royal Ascot is not only the pinnacle of racing excellence but also a showcase for fashion innovation. For the 2025 season, emerging fashion trends combine refined silhouettes, fresh colour palettes and luxurious fabrics. They offer a stylish balance between modern influences and the classic sophistication of the event.

Emerging Trends

Colour Palettes:

Characterised by soft pastels such as pistachio green, soft pink and buttery yellow alongside warm neutrals such as mocha mousse and espresso tones, the colour trends for 2025 are distinctly elegant yet refreshingly vibrant. Providing ample opportunity for chic and memorable Ascot ensembles, these sophisticated tones are complemented by pops of brighter colours such as tangerine orange and cerulean blue.

Fabrics:

With chiffon, tulle, organza and silk leading the way, luxurious, lightweight fabrics dominate the 2025 fashion landscape. Sheer and ethereal fabrics emphasise fluidity and grace. They add a romantic allure that is perfectly in keeping with Royal Ascot's atmosphere of refined elegance. Rich textures elevate garments to true couture status, including intricate embroidery and delicate lace.

Silhouettes:

Graceful asymmetry, soft draping and flowing shapes are the silhouettes of choice for 2025, emphasising sophisticated femininity. Bohemian-inspired styles that effortlessly add modernity without sacrificing timeless charm with subtle asymmetric detailing will be particularly sought after. Structured yet fluid cuts emphasise understated elegance, showcasing individuality within the boundaries of the traditional dress code.

Incorporating Classic Elements:

The key to creating a memorable Royal Ascot ensemble is to balance modern style with traditional elegance. Innovative colours, contemporary silhouettes and delicate fabrics bring a sense of modernity. However, adherence to classic guidelines ensures respect for tradition. Dresses or suits must retain modest necklines and skirt lengths just above or below the knee. Tasteful sleeve designs or jackets must be included. Complementing these with sophisticated accessories - in particular statement hats or fascinators - will ensure that the overall look remains polished, stylish and entirely appropriate for this prestigious event.

What Will Women Be Wearing at Royal Ascot 2025?

Dresses & Suits

Polished daytime elegance is required at Royal Ascot. In the Royal Enclosure, women must wear formal daywear. This is usually a dress or skirt of modest length (just above the knee or longer) with straps at least one inch wide. Strapless, off-the-shoulder and halterneck styles are not permitted in this most exclusive of enclosures. A timeless choice is tailored dresses (think fit-and-flare midis, chic sheaths or tea dresses). 

Fashion in 2025 favours ladylike yet modern looks - clean, feminine silhouettes are trending, often with romantic details such as soft draping or even large bows and 3D floral appliqués. Alternatively, and a welcome addition to Ascot in recent years, women can opt for tailored suits or jumpsuits. A well-cut trouser suit or jumpsuit in a matching fabric and colour is elegant and complies with the dress code. Trouser suits should be full length. Indeed, reflecting a shift towards contemporary racewear, more women are confidently wearing suits at Ascot. 

For 2025, silky textures with vintage-inspired tailoring are making a comeback, so consider suits in luxurious fabrics such as lightweight silk or satin for a touch of glamour. Whether it's a dress or a suit, keep the look sophisticated: Necklines should be modest (no plunging fronts or exposed midriffs are the rules), but you can still play with fashion-forward elements like statement sleeves or bold prints, as long as they remain chic. Floral patterns and delicate lace are perennial favourites at Ascot. 2025's runways will continue to embrace chintzy florals and lacework for a classic yet trendy vibe.

Hats & Millinery

No Ascot outfit is complete without a hat or headpiece. A substantial hat - either a traditional hat or a headpiece with a solid base of at least 4 inches (10 cm) - is mandatory in the Royal Enclosure. (Fascinators or small clips alone are not permitted for adult ladies in the Royal Enclosure). This is the time to get dressed to impress. You could opt for a timeless, elegantly trimmed Sinamay hat or go for a bold fascinator (fascinators are welcome outside the Royal Enclosure). Don't shy away from the avant-garde designs in the 2025 Ascot Millinery Collection. For example, meticulous craftsmanship with a contemporary twist is exemplified by hats from Merve Bayindir Millinery. Whether it's a high fashion fascinator or a wide-brimmed hat creation, pairing your outfit with a Merve Bayindir hat can elevate your look. 

The key is to complement, not overwhelm: if your dress is patterned or detailed, opt for a simpler hat in a coordinating colour; if your outfit is simple and monochromatic, feel free to choose a more elaborate hat as a focal point. Royal Ascot guests have a reputation for wearing quirky, grandiose hats that show off their personality, so have fun - as long as the style is elegant. In the less formal enclosures (Queen Anne and Village), headwear is still strongly encouraged, although fascinators or smaller hats are acceptable. Merve Bayindir's collection, for example, offers pieces that range from bold headdresses to chic headbands - any one of which could be the "perfect hat" to pull your ensemble together. Make sure your hat is comfortable to wear (there's nothing worse than chasing your hat on a windy Berkshire day!), and consider the fit: The Village Enclosure recommends smaller hats or fascinators for lightness. Above all, let your millinery complement your look and express your style - this is the place for a crowning fashion moment.

Footwear & Accessories

Finish your outfit with well-chosen accessories that adhere to Ascot’s polished aesthetic. Shoes should be chic yet practical for daytime. Stiletto heels sinking into grass can ruin your day, so many women opt for block heels or wedges – in fact, wedges and chunky heels are recommended in the Village Enclosure’s lawned areas. A mid-heel pump, elegant slingback, or dressy sandal can work nicely; just ensure they are comfortable enough for lots of walking and standing. 2025 trends favor footwear that combines style and comfort, like platform espadrilles or embellished flats, which can look dressy while saving your feet. Coordinate your shoe color with your outfit – neutral nude or metallic shades elongate the leg and go with almost anything, while a pop of color can be fun if it echoes your hat or dress accents. 

Handbags should be small and refined (think clutches or petite top-handle bags) to carry essentials. A clutch in a matching or complementary hue to your shoes or hat ties the look together seamlessly. Pearls and understated jewelry often pair well with Ascot ensembles, but 2025 also sees some bolder accessories in play (for example, playful acrylic clutches or vintage-style brooches) – feel free to incorporate a trendy accessory as a talking point, so long as it doesn’t violate dress code (avoid anything resembling sportswear or casual wear). Remember that “modest yet contemporary fashion” defines the Ascot vibe– so your accessories should add modern flair without detracting from an overall classy impression. A few finishing touches: if your dress has short sleeves or is sleeveless (permitted outside Royal Enclosure), you might bring a light shawl or cropped jacket for coverage, especially in Royal Enclosure where jackets/pashminas can be worn over outfits that otherwise comply. And finally, don’t forget sun protection – many hats provide shade, but a touch of SPF and even chic sunglasses (as long as you remove them when greeting others) can be both fashionable and smart on a sunny Ascot afternoon.

What Will Men Be Wearing at Royal Ascot 2025?

Traditional Tailoring

Gentlemen at Royal Ascot are expected to look exceptionally sharp. In the Royal Enclosure the required attire is the Morning Dress. This is a classic morning coat (tailcoat) in black, grey or navy with matching trousers, waistcoat and tie. This is considered to epitomise traditional British formal wear. A black or grey top hat is compulsory in the Royal Enclosure to complete the look. (Personalisation of top hats with ribbons or novelty decorations is not permitted in the Royal Enclosure. Keep it traditional). Think James Bond at a daytime wedding - the effect should be very polished and monochromatic. However, you can add subtle personality through your waistcoat or tie. Patterns are acceptable in ties and waistcoats as long as they remain discreet. Even patriotic or heritage motifs (such as a tie with a national flag print) are acceptable as long as they aren't overly novel. In Queen Anne or Village Enclosure, the rules are somewhat relaxed: a full-length matching suit with a collared shirt and tie is the standard. This means you can wear a well-tailored two or three-piece suit in any muted colour or pattern. (Navy, grey, charcoal or even lighter summer colours like beige or pastel blue are popular in 2025.) 

Bow ties and cravats are not allowed in the Queen Anne Enclosure (a classic tie is required). Interestingly, however, bow ties are accepted in the Village Enclosure - so you could swap the tie for a neat bow tie if you like. Menswear trends for 2025 include a return to classic elegance. So you'll be right on trend with a well-cut suit or morning coat.

A lightweight wool or linen-blend suit can keep you cool and stylish (linen is a popular choice for summer 2025, valued for its breathability yet refined look). If you're wearing morning dress, consider a vest in a seasonal colour. For example, a subtle butter-yellow vest or tie would nod to the 2025 palette (but make sure it complements your suit). As a general rule, the more exclusive the setting, the more formal and traditional your outfit should be, while in the more public settings there is a little more sartorial freedom.

Millinery & Accessories

While women's hats may steal the show, men can add subtle touches to stand out in style. In Royal Enclosure, your top hat is already a distinctive accessory. Make sure it's in good condition and fits well. (You are allowed to remove it when entering or within certain areas, but wear it when standing or outside). In other enclosures, a top hat isn't required. However, some men choose to wear a smart hat such as a fedora or panama in Queen Anne or Village for sun protection and style. This is optional, but can add a touch of personality (just keep it classic and high quality). 

If it's not a hat, consider a pocket square in a silk fabric that matches your tie or your partner's outfit. It's a subtle way to tie ensembles together. A fresh boutonniere (flower on your lapel) is another elegant touch that captures the garden party spirit of Ascot; a white rose or carnation pinned to your lapel can be very casual. Other accessories should be subtle. Belts should match the colour of your shoes (although if you're wearing suspenders/braces and a three-piece suit, you might want to skip a belt for formality's sake). Socks must be worn and should cover the ankle - choose a fine dress sock, preferably matching your trousers. 

Ascot specifically forbids casual footwear, so stick to polished dress shoes. Black Oxford lace-ups are the traditional choice with morning dress and suits, although a pair of brown brogues may work with a navy or lighter suit in the Queen Anne or Village Enclosure. (Under no circumstances should you wear trainers/sneakers.

A quality watch and cufflinks can complete your look. 2025 trends favour vintage-inspired watches and personalised cufflinks that aren't too flashy. Remember, your accessories should enhance a polished, gentlemanly appearance rather than draw undue attention, as the aim is to look 'dapper and confident' while respecting the dress code. Small touches such as a tie bar or a matching set of tie and pocket square can show that you have put some thought into your outfit. As the Ascot dress code states, novelty is not allowed for gentlemen. However, classic patterns and personal touches are encouraged in moderation. You can achieve a look that's both compliant and sartorially sharp by balancing tradition with a little personal style - a subtly patterned tie, for example, or a waistcoat in Pantone's Colour of the Year (a rich mocha brown for 2025).

Shoes & Styling Tips

Comfort is key because you're going to be on your feet for most of the day. Opt for a well-broken-in dress shoe or invest in a cushioned insole for your Oxford. Black leather shoes are a must with a morning dress, while a dark brown is acceptable with some suits (but black is never a bad choice for business attire). A high shine goes a long way to enhancing your ensemble, so make sure your shoes are clean and polished. 

When coordinating with a partner, some couples like to match colours. For example, your tie or pocket square could subtly match the colour of your partner's dress or hat. This can make for a wonderfully coordinated (and photogenic) look. However, coordination should be subtle; avoid overly loud matching patterns that clash with the elegance of Ascot. A well-tailored silhouette is the best fashion statement in 2025, when men's styling tends towards the classic. Make sure that your suit or coat fits you properly (consider a visit to the tailor for a few adjustments). A trouser leg that is too long or a baggy jacket will take away from the effect. Aim for a tapered trouser leg that hits the top of your shoe and a smooth buttoned jacket. 

Finally, grooming is important! a neat haircut or beard, and a generally tidy appearance, will complement your outfit. Ascot is a chance to 'dress to the nines' alongside the royals and celebrities, so make the most of the opportunity to look your most polished self. You'll exude the confidence befitting this prestigious event with a correctly executed morning suit or smart summer suit and these thoughtful accents.

Enclosure-Specific Guidelines

Royal Ascot features several enclosures, each with its own atmosphere and dress code nuances. Ensuring your outfit aligns with the specific enclosure’s rules is crucial. Below is a breakdown for the Royal Enclosure, Queen Anne Enclosure, and Village Enclosure, highlighting what to wear in each and how to balance tradition with 2025 trends:

What to Wear to Royal Enclosure?

The Royal Enclosure has the strictest dress code and exudes traditional elegance. Women in the Royal Enclosure must wear formal day dresses or skirts of modest length (just above the knee or longer). Straps must be at least one inch wide (no off-the-shoulder or strapless styles). Shoulders should be covered. Midriffs should not be exposed. A hat is mandatory - either a classic hat or a substantial head covering with a solid base of 4 inches or more. This means that fascinators are not allowed here unless they have this solid base. Opt for a nice hat or large fascinator to be on the safe side. Morning dress (black, grey or navy morning coat with matching trousers, waistcoat and tie) and a top hat are required for men in the Royal Enclosure. It's a very formal look, often referred to as "top hat and tails". Black shoes are compulsory. They must be worn with socks.

In essence, dressing for the Royal Enclosure is akin to attending a very formal daytime wedding or royal ceremony. While tradition is the order of the day, there are still subtle nods to the trends of 2025. For example, ladies could choose a gown in a current colour trend (Pantone's Colour of 2025 is a sophisticated mocha brown, which could be translated into a chic silk gown or accessories), or incorporate modern fabric choices such as sustainable materials. A sophisticated gown in organic cotton or a linen blend could be both in keeping with 2025's eco-conscious fashion and on trend. Gentlemen could add a touch of personality with a waistcoat or tie in a subdued pattern (such as a subtle floral or a tasteful check in trendy colours such as indigo or dill green). These are allowed, as long as they're not too garish. But overall, the style of the royal enclosure should err on the side of classic and understated. Think timeless British elegance: a monochrome or pastel outfit with matching hat for the ladies and impeccable morning suits for the gentlemen. This setting is all about upholding tradition - "formal daywear is a requirement" - so even if you're incorporating a little 2025 fashion, let it accent rather than steal the show. For example, a lady could wear the latest millinery creation by a Millinery Collective designer (making a fashion statement). But make sure the rest of her attire follows all the rules to the letter.

What to Wear to Queen Anne Enclosure?

The Queen Anne Enclosure is slightly less formal than the Royal Enclosure, but still maintains a high standard of dress. Think elegant summer wedding attire. Women are encouraged to dress for a formal occasion, but the rules are a little more flexible: There is no strict minimum skirt length (shorter dresses are allowed within reason), and even an open back dress is allowed, provided it's not strapless or off the shoulder and the midriff is covered. Hats, headpieces or fascinators should always be worn by ladies in Queen Anne. However, unlike Royal Enclosure, there's no size requirement - so a smaller fascinator or headband is acceptable. This allows for more creativity: you could wear a stylish percher hat or a floral fascinator to complement your outfit. Trouser suits and jumpsuits are also welcome here (trousers should be full length and outfits should be in accordance with the strap regulations). Men in Queen Anne must wear a matching suit with shirt and tie. This means a standard business suit (jacket and pants of the same color/pattern). A morning coat or top hat is not required (and would look out of place in the crowd). Ties are required (bow ties and cravats are not allowed for men in this enclosure).

Basically, it's formal but not royal formal: a navy or grey suit with a smart tie for men, and a chic dress or ensemble with a nice hat for women. Styling for 2025: In Queen Anne, you can be a little more fashion-forward and still look appropriate at the same time. For example, women can wear a trendy midi dress or even a tailored high-low hem dress, as long as it's tasteful, because there's no skirt length rule. Satin fabrics, bright prints or contemporary silhouettes that might be too bold for the Royal Enclosure can find a place here. The atmosphere is one of elevation, so dress up, not down - but do feel free to add a little more personality to your outfit. Think garden party chic with a contemporary twist. A floral tea dress with puff sleeves, paired with a matching fascinator and stylish heels, could be a popular look for 2025 in Queen Anne. Men can experiment with the colour of their suits - a deep green or light pastel suit could be striking (some men even wear summer weight morning suits in other enclosures for style, but a regular suit will do just fine). Just avoid anything casual like chinos or patterned jackets that aren't part of a suit set (these are not allowed). Even though the rules allow more, you can still dress as formally as the Royal Enclosure if you like. You won't be out of place in morning dress, you'll just be one of the more formally dressed guests. Overall, Queen Anne Enclosure allows you to be a little more daring with fashion trends - for example, a lady might wear one of the trendy colours or prints of 2025 (but still with a hat!), and a gentleman might opt for a patterned tie or socks in a fun colour, as bowler hats and the like are not required, allowing accessories to shine. It's the perfect balance between tradition and trend.

What to Wear to Village Enclosure?

The Village Enclosure - think stylish summer garden party meets race day - offers a lively, more relaxed atmosphere. The dress code here is still formal day wear, but with a little more lightness to it. Women should dress as if for a formal occasion, similar to the Queen Anne guidelines. Hats, headpieces or fascinators are required and should be worn at all times. However, smaller hats or fascinators are recommended for practicality, given the setting (the village is on the inside of the track, with grass underfoot and a festival atmosphere). There is also no minimum length rule for dresses in the Village Enclosure. However, the standard Ascot prohibitions (no strapless, off-the-shoulder, one-shoulder or Bardot necklines; midriff covered) still apply. Pantsuits and jumpsuits are also welcome, with the same guidelines as for Queen Anne (full length, straps, matching fabric). 

A unique note for the Village: because it's mostly outdoors on the grass, wedges or block heels are strongly recommended over stilettos - a very practical tip that's actually part of the official advice. So, ladies, swap those pointy heels for a nice wedge or block heel that won't sink into the grass. Men should wear at least a jacket and tie with trousers and a shirt in the Village Enclosure. A full suit is customary (and looks the smartest), but theoretically you could mix a blazer with trousers, as long as it's all very polished. (The rules say jeans are not allowed, so stick to dress trousers or smart chinos.) Notably, in the Village, men can wear bow ties or cravats if they wish (these fun touches are allowed here, unlike in Queen Anne). This enclosure encourages a festive yet formal look. Think Ascot meets garden party: ladies can wear a floral sundress with a fascinator or a trendy co-ordinated two-piece (as long as it complies with the covering rules), and men can venture into a lighter suit or even seersucker, paired with a cheerful tie or bow tie.

In all enclosures, ensure your outfit remains sophisticated and within the rules, but use the appropriate leeway to incorporate current trends:

Royal Enclosure = very traditional with maybe a tiny modern accent; 

Queen Anne = formal but fashion-friendly; 

Village = formal yet a tad more playful and comfortable. 

By following these enclosure-specific tips, you’ll strike the perfect balance between Ascot tradition and 2025’s fashion-forward spirit, no matter where you’re watching the races.

Spotlight on Merve Bayindir Millinery’s Royal Ascot Hat Collection

Merve Bayindir's Royal Ascot collection epitomises elegance and sartorial drama, combining timeless millinery traditions with modern artistry. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans using luxurious materials - rich silks, velvets, intricate lace and delicate feathers - for exceptional quality and detail. Design inspirations range from classic, wide-brimmed hats that evoke vintage glamour to bold, avant-garde fascinators that add a touch of modern chic. A prevailing theme is an ode to florals and nature, infusing the collection with feminine floral accents and sculptural organic forms. The result is a range of headwear that is at once traditional and refreshingly innovative - perfect for making a statement at Royal Ascot, including pieces that meet the strict requirements of the Royal Enclosure.

Key pieces from the Royal Ascot collection include:

Zanzibar Fascinator

Twilight Petal Wide-Brim Hat

Solstices Fascinator

Verdant Breeze Fascinator

Customization and Bespoke Hat Options For Royal Ascot

In addition to the ready-to-wear collection, Merve Bayindir Millinery offers a bespoke millinery service for customers who want a one-off Ascot hat that is completely tailored to their individual style and outfit. This couture service allows you to work directly with the milliner to bring your dream hat to life - whether that means tweaking an existing design or creating something entirely new. Every detail is customisable: shape, colour, materials, trims and embellishments can all be adjusted to perfectly complement your Royal Ascot ensemble. The team's philosophy is that a hat should "complement the look, the occasion and you", taking into account the dress code of the event, your outfit and your personality. The sky's the limit as the milliners love a creative challenge and have over a decade of experience creating couture headpieces for private clients. The result is a completely unique hat that not only meets the requirements of Royal Ascot, but also reflects your vision and ensures you stand out with confidence. Visit custom order hats page for more information.

VIP Home & Hotel Room Hat Fitting Service

For those who desire an even more exclusive and convenient experience, Merve Bayindir Millinery provides a VIP Home & Hotel Room Hat Fitting Service. This white-glove service brings the hat salon directly to you, allowing you to discover the perfect Royal Ascot hat in the comfort and privacy of your own space. It’s the ultimate indulgence for busy clients, public figures, or anyone who prefers a personalized shopping experience away from the crowds.

Merve Bayindir Millinery’s Royal Ascot offerings go beyond simply selling hats – it’s about offering an artistry-filled experience. From the beautifully designed Ascot hat collection (inspired by everything from classic femininity to bold modern forms) to the bespoke creation process and VIP fitting services, every aspect is handled with a meticulous eye and personal touch. The tone is set at the highest level of sophistication: clients are treated to old-world couture service with modern convenience. With Merve Bayindir’s hats, you are not just adhering to Ascot’s dress code – you are celebrating it, wearing a creation that captures the exclusivity and creative flair of Royal Ascot itself. From the first consultation to that moment at Ascot where your hat undoubtedly turns heads, Merve Bayindir ensures you experience the thrill of extraordinary millinery. For a more detailed Royal Ascot Hat Guide, visit the page now.