It’s that time of year again, ladies, when we finally have the opportunity to wear that special hat which has been sat, cushioned in its box like a De Beers emerald cut diamond ring, waiting for its big moment. It’s race season and those who know the odds on favourites over the outsiders are as enthralled by those who are aware of the style stakes that parade off the home stretch too. Some may say it is as important as which horse is first out of the stalls.
Royal Ascot is an event many would have had scheduled in their fashion and social diary months ago. If like me, you’ve returned from The Dubai World Cup whilst styling VIPs, you would have witnessed that an Osca de la Renta or Lanvin dress does not look out of place in the royal enclosure, or in the terraces for that matter. Revered across the world and as the brand’s tagline states – Ascot is “Like nowhere else”.
“Royal Ascot is not just a world-class sporting occasion but also a major fashion event in its own right,” commented Nick Smith, Head of Communications and International Racing Ascot. “Every year, coinciding with the Royal Meeting, British fashion comes to the forefront of the media and millinery of the moment is a hot topic. The dress code remains an unswervingly proud emblem of what the week is about, and ladies and gentlemen dress to reflect Royal Ascot’s heritage.”
With the newly introduced Royal Ascot Style Guide, one has no excuse but to comply with the dress code, although those of us who enjoy the theatre of dressing up know all too well that it isn’t so much about following guidelines, it’s HOW to wear a dress code stylishly. The pièce de résistance in this conundrum is of course the hat. Fascinators need not apply.
With any great British tradition comes great British design, and below is a selection of exquisitely made hats from two UK based award-winning milliners coupled with designer looks to inspire you for that race day win.
Awon Golding Millinery: Award-winning milliner with beautiful narratives and dramatic silhouettes. Awon’s modern pieces are all hand crafted.
Rachel Trevor Morgan: With The Royal Warrant of Appointment to Her Majesty the Queen given to Rachel in 2014, her creations answer to the most glamorous and elegant of clientèle.
About the Author: Sara Ebbett is a fashion and interiors consultant, working with clients internationally. Trained in interior design, and selected as a Young Designer of the Year, Sara later launched an accessories label at London and Paris fashion weeks where Vogue Italia named her a talent to watch. When she isn’t flying between continents and showrooms, you’ll find Sara somewhere in London dressing the well travelled gentleman and woman, whilst consulting to luxury brands. Website.
