Top Style Tips for Gents for a Day at the Races

Style wise – something that can rarely go wrong – a suit, classic. Blue and Navy are the colours of the season - and with weather hitting 18 to 22 degrees (fingers crossed it sticks…) you want to make sure you’re dressed for sun. Grey’s are also a nice option but require a bit more creativity on the shoes/accessories front to not look dull.

Outside of those - pastel colours wouldn’t go amiss if you’re brave – the lighter the better, we’re talking creams, beiges and matte colourings. Patterns (like massive checks) are also taking over right now so don’t rule them out if you think you can’t pull them off, If you don’t normally wear check suits with confidence – there’s no time like the races to go for it. I’d also throw in a vote for tweed suits, but be aware lads – this can be a real labour of love in the heat.

Two pieces, Three piece – whatever you fancy, can work. Personal preference: I’d choose a three piece. You start the day smart and can end the day with the jacket off, sleeves rolled up and still look smart.

Outside of suits you have the choice of blazers which is likely to be the major trend at races over the summer. If you’re going for it - make sure you get it right, whilst also being adventurous (vague enough?). What I mean is, with all the various colour combinations to choose from, you can look spectacular… or like Harry and Lloyd from Dumb and Dumber in their suits (Google it).

For a fresh clean look - white jeans/trousers matched with a plan colour shirt (again, you can’t go wrong with white or blue) and a light coloured blazer looks great. Bit risky with mud around you and drinks flowing but it’s a fresh summer style that you can only really do for two months in Britain, so might as well! For a classic races/more heritage look – you can’t go wrong with dark jeans/trousers and a tweed waistcoat/jacket combo.

Now the part that requires attention to detail – accessories. These picks should largely come down to what you’ve chosen as the main body of your outfit - gone for a check patterned suit? Then muted subtle accessories are your friend. Gone for a plain coloured suit? Then bold and bright colours should be what draws the eye. In my mind a pocket hanky is non-negotiable (got to mop up those drink stains on your white trousers somehow…).

Shoes – some people are real sticklers for oxfords vs brogues and which can be worn with what. In this day and age shoes are as much of a show of your personality as everything else so go for what feels right. However – smart shoes only, never trainers at the races. Smart shoes have enough variety that you should be kept busy deciding for a while - Brown, Black, Burgundy, Two-tone – the world’s your oyster here.

Then remember the three S’s – Smell (a good aftershave), Sunglasses (ones that suit your headshape), Suncream (remember, we’re all very, very British).