20120808_0050” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by 2sirius CAPTION: A day at the races is always a great day out
Going to the races is always a great occasion to get dressed up. These days, whether you’re headed to Woodbine, where races are literally heading in a different direction, or a smaller course, you’ll find that there are few set guidelines on how you should dress. Race days are more relaxed affairs than they used to be. Nonetheless, the following tips will help you steer the right course when it comes to putting together a race day outfit.
Hats and headpieces
Jaguar Style Stakes | 2014 Dubai World C” (CC BY 2.0) by jaguarmena CAPTION: Fascinators – alternatives to a full-on hat
Not everyone enjoys wearing a hat, but they’re a tradition at race courses. So, if you want to wear one, go for it. Start with your outfit, rather than the hat, and remember the hat should go with your dress, not your shoes. If you’re wearing an eye-catching hat, choose a simple outfit. If you have a colourful outfit, you might want to pick a more subtle hat. Of course, if you don’t like the idea of a hat, there’s always the fascinator option.
Well done to the beautiful winners of the best hat competition #LQP2016 pic.twitter.com/iy2IQ58hEG
— RACING (@racing_itsarush) January 9, 2016
Leave evening wear at home
You’re going for an elegant look. So, keep the hemlines below the knee and avoid wearing something that’s too tight or sparkly. Similarly, keep the make-up natural and save the fake tan for a night out.
Think about comfort
You might buy some new shoes for your day out at the races, but be sure to wear them a few times before the day. You’ll be on your feet for most of the day so they need to be comfortable. Just in case, pack a few plasters to take care of any rubbing or chafing.
Remember all the details
It’s not just the outfit and the shoes you need to get right. Finish off your look with beautifully-styled hair and manicured nails.
Have a bet or two
Part of the fun of going to the races is having a bet on which horses you think will win. That’ll make the spectating even more exciting. Today, it’s much easier to place bets on your mobile with a site like bet365 rather than queue up in the betting ring. You can catch up on past form and get current betting news on your phone on your journey to the races and while you’re there, of course. Remember to keep bets at a reasonable level – you can never be absolutely sure of picking a winner
Don’t forget to check the forecast
Obviously, you’re going to spend a lot of time outside on race day. Take a mini-umbrella in your bag, but also remember sunscreen and sunglasses. You need to be prepared for all weathers.
Stay hydrated
For most racegoers, a few drinks will definitely be part of the day. However, it’s a sensible idea to drink plenty of water, too. You want to leave the racecourse in a refined state as you arrived.
Once you’ve picked a fantastic-looking outfit that’s comfortable to spend the whole day in, you’ll be free to concentrate on having fun at the races, soaking up the atmosphere and cheering on the horses you’ve backed to win!
