Have you had an invitation for a day at the races and have no idea what to wear? If it is your first race meeting then it can be a little daunting. You have seen the big hats and wacky outfits on TV and it terrifies you. Well no need to worry, the good news is that you can wear pretty much what you want. The only rule is that it must be smart not casual.

Leave the wacky stuff for the show offs and take the chance to indulge yourself in a little glamour. If you normally pull on a pair of skinny jeans and a cute top for an evening out with friends, you will enjoy having the opportunity to dress up for a day at the races. You don’t have to spend a fortune to look good, most online stores have a selection of stylish, on trend outfits which would be perfect for a day at the races. You will also be able to source the perfect accessories.

The style choices are unlimited, just because you need to look smart you don’t have to look like someone’s granny! Here are a few pointers to help you find the look you want.

CLASSIC CHIC

A well cut tailored shift dress in a quality fabric – simple, sleek and chic. Team with a large soft leather bag and the highest heels that you can wear comfortably. You can always add a matching jacket if you prefer. All these pieces can be interchangeable with trousers, skirt, tops, a perfect way to build up a stylish wardrobe for future occasions. I would not choose to wear a hat with this outfit but if you have long hair put it up in a sleek top-knot.

SATINS SILKS AND FRILLS

Pleasure seekers may be on the hunt for frivolous flirty ruffles, shimmering satins or soft silks. The colour palette varies from deep emeralds and reds to sherbert pinks or fizzy lemon and limes. These are the dresses that you can team with fascinating and strappy sandals. Fun clutch bags decorated with feathers, ruffles or embroidery. There are lots of shawls and shrugs available if you want to cover your shoulders. They come in a full range of fabrics and colours. A lined lace dress always looks stunning and in a classic, simple shift style, it will become a staple piece that you can rely on for lots of seasons to come.

MAXI DRESSES

A race meeting is one of the occasions which you can safely wear a maxi dress during the day. This season the maxi has come into its own and every online store has a variety to choose from. Beautiful prints in either subtle or vibrant colour palettes with sweetheart or halter necks, the choice is yours. Flat strappy sandals are teamed with hobo bags to complete the look.

Basically a day at the races means that you can still wear the kind of style you are comfortable with as long as it is not casual. Choose an outfit to suit your personality!