Royal Ascot dress code 2026: Full guide for racegoers heading to Berkshire track

Kyle CurranKyle Curran· Updated
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Royal Ascot dress code 2026: Full guide for racegoers heading to Berkshire track
  • Royal Ascot dress code revealed
  • What to wear in all four enclosures
  • And what NOT to wear

As the biggest flat meeting of the summer edges closer, one topic that is talked about often is the Royal Ascot dress code, so we’ve got all the information you need. 

Royal Ascot Dress Code 2026: What To Wear & What NOT To Wear

We’ve put together the ultimate 2026 Royal Ascot dress code guide ahead of the huge meeting taking place in June.

There will be five days of Royal Ascot action so if you’re heading to the Berkshire track, check out all of the dress code information here!

With four different enclosures available for racegoers to buy their tickets in, the dress codes can differ. That’s why we’re on hand to provide the dress code checklists.

Royal Enclosure Dress Code 2026

The Royal Enclosure has the strictest dress code in the whole racecourse and it’s clear to see why given you have to be invited to it!

So if you are lucky enough to be in the Royal Enclosure, check out the dress code requirements below.

Ladies

  • Headwear must be be worn. That can be a hat, or a headpiece (base of four inches/10cm).
  • Dresses and skirts must not go much further above the knee. Midriffs should not be on show. Strapless/off-the-shoulder outfits are not permitted.
  • Jackets and other shoulder covers are allowed.
  • Trouser suits and jumpsuits are allowed, but should be full length.

Men

  • Morning dress is required and must be black, grey or navy.
  • Ties and waistcoat needed, bow ties and cravats are not allowed.
  • Top hats should be worn and they can be either black or grey.

Queen Anne Enclosure Dress Code 2026

The Queen Anne enclosure dress code isn’t as strict as the Royal Enclosure, but is still formal and should not be ignored.

Ladies

  • Encouraged to dress in appropriate formal manner.
  • Hats or headpieces should be worn at all times.
  • Dresses or tops must have straps. Open-back style is permitted, but can’t be strapless or off-the-shoulder and there is no minimum length requirement.
  • Shorts of any kind are not permitted.
  • Trouser suits and jumpsuits must go beyond the knee and have same strap regulations.

Men

  • Suits (two or three-piece) must be full length and worn with a collared shirt.
  • Jackets and trousers should match, and jeans or chinos are not permitted.
  • Ties must be applied, but bow ties and cravats are not allowed.
  • Socks must be worn and cover the ankle.
  • Shoes should be smart and no trainers are allowed.

Village Enclosure Dress Code 2026

Slightly more relaxed in the Village Enclosure, but Ascot still expect racegoers to dress in formal manner.

Ladies

  • Hats or headpieces should be worn at all times, but smaller hats are recommended.
  • Dresses or tops should not be strapless or off-the-shoulder. No minimum length.
  • Trouser Suits must be full length and matching in colour. Shorts are not permitted.
  • Wedges and block heels are suggested over stilettos.

Men

  • Jackets are required but can be of a different material to trouser. Collared shirt required.
  • Shorts and jeans are not permitted.
  • Ties must be worn at all times. Bow ties and cravats are also allowed.
  • Shoes should be smart and socks must be worn and cover the ankle. Trainers not permitted.

Windsor Enclosure Dress Code 2026

There is NO formal dress code needed in the Windsor Enclosure, but smart daywear is suggested.

Gentlemen are recommended to wear a jacket with a collared shirt.

Royal Ascot Dress Code 2026 – What NOT To Wear

All of the things below are forbidden at Royal Ascot.

  • Fancy Dress
  • Novelty paterns or fabrics
  • No clothing with slogans, phrases, promotional messaging, brand slogans or cartoon imagery.
  • Trainers
  • Denim, leggings and shorts

Kyle Curran is a horse racing journalist with years of experience covering top events in the calendar. He has an eye for a strong form line and has a particular love for the jumps. When not writing about the sport he loves, Kyle can be found travelling around the top horse racing meetings around the UK and Ireland. Kyle also specialises in PR and Exclusive Interviews.

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