We stop the most stylish women in Ascot's Royal Box to ask for outfit details
Our Mirror fashion team heads to Ascot's prestigious Royal Enclosure to discover where the most stylish women shopped for their race-day outfits...
When it comes to style stakes, Royal Ascot's Royal Enclosure is the place to be. With a strict dress code and a reputation for glamour, this exclusive area plays host to some of the most fabulously turned-out women in the country, including the Royal Family. And this year, the Mirror fashion team got extended an invite. So, armed with our best compliments, we hit the lawns to track down the most stylish women sporting race-day fashion you'll want to copy for your own summer events.
From show-stopping millinery to chic co-ords and heirloom-worthy accessories, we chatted to the most stylish women we could find to get the lowdown on exactly what (and who) they're wearing. So, whether you're after inspiration for next year's races or just love a good fashion nosy at this year's top occasionwear trends, prepare to add space in your wardrobe for these pieces– and the lower-priced alternatives we've hunted down...
Baby blues and elevated florals
Two standout trends dominated the Royal Enclosure this year: dreamy baby blues and elevated florals. Soft pastel shades of blue brought a fresh, romantic feel to the lawns, with everything from structured midi dresses to floaty chiffon numbers turning heads. Meanwhile, florals got a sophisticated upgrade – think bold blooms on luxurious fabrics, intricate embroidery and dramatic silhouettes that felt anything but garden party.
Copy Laura's look for less: Coast Lisa Tan Polo Tie Waist Shirt Dress, £129
Polka dots and Peter Pan collars
Playful and polished, polka dots and Peter Pan collars made a strong showing at Ascot this year, adding a touch of retro charm to the Royal Enclosure. From classic monochrome spots to colourful, oversized prints, polka dots proved to be a favourite with a modern twist. Peter Pan collars, meanwhile, brought a trendy, vintage-inspired edge to tailored dresses and blouses.
Cape silhouettes
Cape-style dresses swept through Ascot with heaps of elegance, adding a bit of drama to traditional race-day dressing. Whether draped over shoulders in soft chiffon or built into sleek, structured gowns, cape detailing gave outfits a regal, fashion-forward edge.
Porcelain prints
Porcelain prints made a return to Ascot this year, with delicate blue-and-white patterns inspired by fine china turning heads across the lawns. From intricate Toile de Jouy (a textile comparable to fine batiste– think Dior) to bold ceramic-inspired motifs, these prints added an almost regal feel to everything from midi dresses to co-ords.
Playful prints
Fun prints brought a burst of personality to the Royal Enclosure, proving that Ascot style doesn't always have to take itself too seriously. We spotted everything from tropical palm motifs and fruity patterns to whimsical sea creatures swimming across skirts and dresses. These fun, feel-good prints were a refreshing contrast to more traditional race-day looks, with bold colours and unexpected designs stealing the spotlight.
Royal blue
Royal blue reigned supreme at Ascot this year, bringing a bold energy. The rich, vibrant hue was a favourite among racegoers looking to make a statement, whether in sleek tailoring, flowing dresses, or dramatic headpieces.
Pictured: An unnamed Summer House attendee wears Diane von Furstenberg Women's Blue Queena Floral Cotton Midi Dress now £297 (pictured is an out-of-stock royal blue shade)
Silky co-ords
Silky co-ords were out in full force, offering a chic alternative to the traditional dress-and-hat combo. These fluid, matching sets – often in luxe satins and soft sheens – brought a grown-up elegance to the enclosure, with racegoers favouring everything from pastel hues to bold floral prints.
Pictured: Lindy wears Max Mara Printed silk pyjama shirt, £340, and matching trousers, £300
Copy Lindy's look for less: Karen Millen Mirrored Viscose Linen Floral Print With Raffia Belt Woven Trouser, £149, and matching shirt, £139
Oversized bows
Oversized bows made a bold statement this year, accessorising everything from headbands to wide-brimmed hats with playful drama. Whether sculpted in satin, layered in tulle or made from cotton, these eye-catching embellishments added a fun and flirty twist to traditional millinery.
Pictured: Lynsey wears Miss B's Millinery Velvet Kate Headband, £195, an unnamed Summer House attendee wears a custom bow sunhat
Monochrome
Monochrome made its mark at Ascot once again, proving that black and white is a timeless combo that never goes out of style. From crisp white tailoring with contrasting black accessories to polka-dotted dresses and graphic prints, the Royal Enclosure was a masterclass in minimalist elegance.
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