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How To Create A Cheltenham Races Outfit
Cheltenham Races is an event synonymous with elegance, tradition, and excitement. As the fluttering of hooves fills the air and the anticipation of victory looms, dressing for Cheltenham Races becomes more than just a fashion choice; it’s an opportunity to make a statement and celebrate a centuries-old sporting tradition.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to create the perfect Cheltenham Races outfit with some hero products, including some from Barbour, Dubarry, and the official fashion partner Holland Cooper. So, whether you’re a seasoned racegoer or a first-timer, we’ve got you covered from head to toe, just in time for the October showcase.
Start With The Right Foundations
Cheltenham is an opportunity to dress up and show off your favourite investment pieces, but it’s just as important to get the bones of the outfit right too. A smart shirt is a staple for men and women and can be styled in multiple ways. For ladies, a plain fitted blouse or shirt is a great starting point when building an outfit. We love the Women’s Dubarry Snowdrop Shirt as it is crisp, delicate, and flattering, while also featuring eye catching details.
For men, either a plain or lightly checked shirt will work nicely as a base for a Cheltenham outfit. Barbour men’s shirts have a great selection of both, but we particularly like the smartly designed Barbour Oxtown Tailored Shirt. As for checked shirts, we don’t think you can go wrong with the Men’s Schöffel Baconsthorpe Tailored Shirt in navy or purple check.
Next, the bottom half! We see a lot of tweed at Cheltenham, so an obvious choice for ladies is a fitted tweed skirt. The Women’s Holland Cooper Regency Skirt is right at the top of our wish lists this season! This classic pencil skirt provides an elegant and flattering silhouette, with an air of glamour that is perfect for Race Day. Alternatively, if you don’t fancy wearing a skirt outdoors during October, a simple pair of white jeans will complete any country inspired look. For example, the Holland Cooper Jodhpur Jeans are a firm favourite!
For the gents, either jeans or a smart pair of chino trousers is sure to be a winning formula. Dark and earthy tones will complement the deep and rich hue of tweed, while also presenting a smart casual option that can be dressed up or down. On the other hand, many men prefer a well fitting suit with some key accessories.
Layer Up For October Weather
Let’s face it – the weather at the end of October is probably going to be quite cold. So what better excuse for investing in a new coat or jacket? Outerwear can easily be the statement piece of an outfit, so it’s important to choose wisely!
For a traditional racing look, a women’s tweed coat or jacket is an easy choice. Tweed is warm and comfortable and has a timeless elegance that will elevate any outfit. Furthermore, a beautifully tailored wool coat or jacket not only looks good, but can also fill the wearer with self confidence. Men’s wool coats and jackets similarly bring a refined edge to the most visible layer of your outfit.
Cheltenham Outerwear Top Picks
Long coats and short jackets each have their own benefits, so the choice is dependent on your personal taste and preferences. Long coats naturally provide more coverage, but for some the bulkier material may feel too heavy or restrictive. However, the long line gives an elegant look that is ideal for dressier occasions. Short jackets can be styled for smart or casual events, are great for layering, and can be used to create a blend of traditional and modern styling.
Cheltenham Footwear: Comfort is Key!
Comfort is an absolute priority when it comes to spending the whole day on your feet. High quality boots will keep you warm and dry while removing the risk of blisters or any aches and pains.
You’d be hard pushed to attend a racing event and not see a pair of Fairfax & Favor boots. A fine example of premium footwear, these iconic boots are supremely versatile, partnering well with almost any style. Opt for the Flat Regina Boots to prevent your heels from sinking into any soft grass.
For men, a sturdy pair of ankle or Chelsea boots will keep you comfortable for the day while continuing the smart gentleman look right down to your feet. The recent offering of leather boots from Le Chameau are a popular choice thanks to their comfort insole, reliable grip, and smart waterproof leather.
Top Cheltenham Tip:
Don’t forget to choose footwear that you have tried, tested, and worn in! Cheltenham Races is not the right day to wear a new pair of boots for the first time.
Hats and Accessories: The Cheltenham Staples
If you already have the perfect outfit ready for Cheltenham, you can always spruce it up with some new exciting accessories. Flat caps top off a gent’s outfit seamlessly, bringing in the country vibes whether it’s tweed or wax. Meanwhile, for ladies, a trendy fedora hat will enhance the elegance and traditional race day aura of any ensemble.
Finally, complete your Cheltenham outfit with a statement accessory. Womenswear is notorious for not having pockets, so a bag to hold your race day essentials is a must. A cross body bag is the most practical option, allowing you to keep your hands free for that all important glass of bubbles! The Fairfax & Favor Finsbury Bag is our go-to choice, as the long chain is super stylish as well as functional, and it’s the perfect size. Meanwhile, for men, a quirky patterned men’s tie can add individuality to your outfit, while a smart pair of cufflinks adds a premium finishing touch.
So, as the Cheltenham Showcase at the end of October draws closer, use this guide to help start planning what you’re going to wear. It’s important to note that there is no longer a dress code at Cheltenham, as the organisers aim to make horseracing more accessible to a wider audience. Therefore while you may wish to take the opportunity to dress to impress, the most important factor is that you dress comfortably and prepare for the weather, so that you can maximise your enjoyment of the event.
For more Cheltenham outfit inspiration, find out how to get the Cheltenham Festival look in our style guide.
