Never been to the races? No idea what to wear? No problem, our ultimate race day style guide will ensure you’re race-ready for the 2025 season.
Whether you’re heading to the iconic Cheltenham Festival this March, dressing for Royal Ascot in June, or just popping along to a local meeting, what you wear to the races can make a big impression.
While some venues and meetings have specific dress codes and others none, race day fashion has its own unique ‘style’, and mastering it can be tricky. From tweed suits to smart blazers, our men’s formal suits and styling advice will help you create some classic racing combinations designed for all kinds of weather. We can’t guarantee any winning tips, but we promise you’ll nail the perfect race day look and get noticed at the track.
Dress for the weather
There’s no overstating it, but the weather will be a major factor in your choice of outfit. Racing takes place all year round in all kinds of conditions, so be prepared for biting wind and driving rain, especially in the winter months.
When it’s cold and wet, you may want to substitute the business-like navy suit for a country-inspired look featuring heavier fabrics that keep you warm, cosy and looking sharp. You could also add some finishing touches like a waistcoat, brushed cotton shirt, cravat, and baker boy cap that deliver strong race day vibes.
Go for traditional tweeds
A true horseracing style hero, traditional tweed is engrained into the very fabric of racing society, whether it’s a full tweed suit or a statement jacket. Tweed is hugely on-trend again in 2025 with more variety of bold colours, checks, and designs than ever before, offering a myriad of style options.
To really rock the race day look, consider a classic two-piece or timeless three-piece tweed suit with strong, peak lapels. For example, an olive green or beige tweed suit will capture the seasonal spring mood at early meetings like the Cheltenham Festival. Or go for something brighter like a pale blue tweed for meetings held in the summer. If you’re planning on wearing multiple layers but fear you’ll overheat, lightweight lambswools are another practical option.
Don a classic sports jacket
From Aintree to Ayr, you’ll look every bit the true country gent in a classic sports jacket and trouser combination that’s guaranteed to be a hit at any race meeting. This timeless men’s outfit is extremely versatile thanks to the wide selection of colours, fabrics, and designs to suit every taste, allowing you to truly express your individual racing style.
Again, chunky tweeds are an ideal material for sports jackets and blazers worn in the colder months. Similarly, jackets made from thinner fabrics are often more comfortable when attending summer race meetings. The important thing is to match your trousers accordingly, so heavier twills and cotton fabrics to partner a tweed jacket, or lightweight chinos or linen slacks when the weather warms up.
Wear a breeze-busting overcoat
If you’ve experienced the icy wind blowing down Cheltenham’s famous Cleeve Hill as it chills your bones, you’ll know what a serious game-changer a solid overcoat can be. So, unless you’re going racing in the middle of a heatwave, taking a reliable coat could be the best decision you’ll make all day.
In terms of racing attire, you won’t go far wrong with a classic Crombie-style overcoat. As well as looking incredibly stylish, you’ll create a protective barrier against the wind and cold air and stay warm and cosy. Modern overcoats also come in a range of colours and designs from camel and navy to vivid greens to match the rest of your outfit. And no matter which racecourse you’re attending, you’ll always be on-trend with the rest of the racing community in a snug-fitting overcoat.
Get ahead with a cap or hat
Some would argue that no race day outfit is complete without a cap or hat. Flat caps and baker boy caps have boomed in recent times as racegoers look to emulate fashion styles of yesteryear while also keeping warm.
You’ll never be short of flat cap options either, thanks to the vast selection of fabrics and colours to complement any racing ensemble. From classic checks and seasonal tweeds to plain baker boy designs, choosing the right headwear will add polish to your sophisticated look. Just be aware that some race meetings call for specific headwear, such as the traditional top hat worn at Royal Ascot every year.
Choose matching footwear to boot
Finding the right race day footwear can be challenging, especially in unpredictable weather. You’ll want to finish off your outfit and look a million dollars in a smart pair of shoes or boots. But, when you’re walking several miles and spending all day on your feet, your footwear must also be comfortable, durable, and snug.
For instance, pair a tweed suit in earth tones with brown leather shoes, or match your sports jacket and trousers with a pair of traditional Chelsea boots that can be worn all year round. If you’ve upped the style stakes and opted for a traditional three-piece suit, a pair of classic brogues with their subtle patterns also work well. Just remember, race day footwear should be as practical as it is stylish, or you could end up with sore feet and blisters as well as empty pockets.
Remember the accessories
You’re almost there with your ideal race day outfit, and it’s important to add those finishing touches that can make all the difference. Whether you’ve gone for a classic approach or a more country feel, some well-chosen accessories will switch things up and elevate your look to another level.
Consider wearing a tie and pocket square to match your suit or blazer, or add a modern, trendy twist with items that clash with the rest of your outfit. If you’re feeling ultra confident, you could go the whole hog with a tweed tie and pocket square to complement your three-piece tweed suit.
So, whether it’s flat racing at Newbury or over the jumps at Newcastle, our ultimate horseracing style guide will help you create your perfect race day ensemble.
