Ascot Style Fit For A Queen

If anything can outshine the spectacular horse racing at Britain’s foremost race meeting, it is the Royal Ascot fashion. Attendees go all out for the five-day affair. Extravagant creations by the best milliners around adorn the heads of racegoers and smart summer styles are out in full force.

Because of Ascot’s noble roots, members of the Royal Family always attend the race meeting each year. Their Ascot style choices, both past and present, have definitely lived up to their titles.

Princess Diana

In true Lady Di style, every outfit the beloved Princess ever wore to Royal Ascot was unique and enviable, so it’s hard to choose a favorite. However, we do love this look from 1986 because it was quite different from her previous choices. Going for a more tailored look, the Princess chose a white skirt suit with a deep V collar and peplum waist. She accessorized her Ascot style with pearls and a matching wide-brimmed Philip Somerville hat designed by couture milliner Dillon Wallwork.

While that may be our favorite of Princess Diana’s Royal Ascot looks, we have to say that her 1989 Ascot hat was pretty spectacular, too. Also designed by Wallwork for Phillip Somerville, it was the perfect shape for her. She is pictured here arriving in the Royal Procession with the late Queen Mother. We hope headwrap-style hats make a comeback – especially in this blue and white color combination!

The Duchess of Sussex

When Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, made her Royal Ascot debut in 2018, the world watched in awe. The fact that she wore a light-colored ensemble for the festivities was fitting since she had married Prince Harry just a month prior. Her cream Givenchy coat dress was classic and traditional and very in tune with her style. The look was completed with a black and cream creation by milliner Philip Treacy. The asymmetrical design was whimsical but sophisticated, affirming her new role as a member of the Royal Family and a fashion force to be reckoned with.

Queen Elizabeth

While Queen Elizabeth has worn brimmed hats to Royal Ascot (and most other occasions) in recent years, there was a time when she experimented with other hat styles. In 1973, she swapped a traditional hat shape for this green halo crown style headpiece. The monarch’s Ascot style was extremely fashion-forward, especially considering this millinery shape is very much on trend again today.

Princess Anne

In 1969, a young Princess Anne opted for an interesting Royal Ascot hat and we view it as an iconic moment. Who else could rock this jockey style cap like Princess Anne? The mod pattern also proved that the young princess was on track with the trends of the sixties.

The Duchess of Cambridge

We can’t have a roundup of Royal Ascot fashion moments without mentioning the Duchess of Cambridge’s white lace 2016 look. Not only was her outfit memorable for its beauty, but it also marked her Royal Ascot debut which had been five years in the making. She complemented the midi-dress with nude heels and a mesh saucer hat from Jane Taylor London.

Whenever the royals make public appearances, their style is always exceptional. Time and time again, they have made stunning Royal Ascot fashion statements and upheld the race’s reputation as the epitome of chic.

About the Author

Maggie Kreienberg is a contributing editor at BRIDES Magazine and is currently based in New York City. She graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a degree in public relations in 2019.