With Royal Ascot just around the corner in June, and no doubt a stack of thick wedding invitations on the doormat, you’ll be turning your thoughts to shopping. Looking formal but still fabulous can be a tricky balancing act, but Debenhams is a great one stop shop for occasionwear.

Annual posh racing meet Royal Ascot could be mistaken for a high-end fashion show instead of a serious horse-racing event. It’s one occasion where it’s important to dress up to the nines, and the dress code is notoriously strict.

Those lucky enough to gain access to the Royal Enclosure have a very strict dress code that must be adhered to. Ladies must wear a formal day dress with a hat or substantial fascinator. Off the shoulder styles, halter-necks, spaghetti straps and miniskirts are unacceptable. Gentlemen in the Royal Enclosure must wear a morning suit with top hat, in either black or grey.

In the slightly less formal Grandstand viewing area men and women should be dressed in suitably smart attire, although hats are not compulsory. Ladies day is traditionally the day when the well-to-do fashionista’s are out in force, and all manner of spectacular hats and headpieces can be seen bobbing about on the lawns.

Whether you’re the lucky holder of a Royal Ascot ticket, or have a formal wedding to attend this summer, Debenhams has all that you need to look suitably smart without looking stuffy or stale.

With an amazing choice, and designer names at fantastic prices, Debenhams is an affordable choice for occassionwear. And you can make your purchases even more affordable when you use a 5hop5.co.uk Debenhams Discount Code.

For the Royal Enclosure, a thick strap and demure length are required. The Debut Black Printed Organza Dress would be a great choice for those who are most comfortable in black, but want to lighten it for the occasion with a floral print and light organza overlay. Pair with simple black court shoes in either patent or suede and you’re ready to mingle.

For those who want a slinkier style with a designer edge, the Tonal Grey Tiered Shift Dress by Star by Julian MacDonald has just the right mix of sexy and sophisticated. The Grey Sherbet Flower Toe Court Shoe will soften the look beautifully, and the chunky heel is both on trend and practical for outdoor events. The last thing you want to be worrying about while trying to look fabulous is your spindly heels sinking into the lawn.

The more mature lady may want to go for one of this season’s formal maxi dresses. Jacques Vert has a lovely Plum Chiffon Maxi Dress that is a flattering, rich alternative to black. It comes with a matching scarf for those conscious of the upper arm area, and would look perfect put with the Decadent Rose Fascinator and matching kitten heels.

Men looking for a formal suit will find themselves spoilt for choice in Debenhams menswear department. A wide range of suits from designer names, including Pierre Cardin, Jeff Banks. Ben Sherman and J by Jasper Conran are available at Debenhams, without the designer price tag.

Classic black or grey suits always look stylish, but for the Ascot Grandstand or a wedding, why not consider navy, which looks great with a crisp white shirt and bright green tie, or a stone linen suit, which goes perfectly with pastel shades.

At Ascot it’s all about the hats, and for some formal weddings only a hat will do. Debenhams does a wide range, adorned with giant bows, feathers and flowers. However, not everyone feels comfortable in a hat. If the dress code allows, why not go for a stylish and youthful fun fascinator instead? Or even one of this season’s heavily adorned headbands.

Debenhams is a great place to find all those little finishing touches that turn an outfit from fabulous to spectacular. A dress is only as good as the underwear worn with it, so make sure that you invest in some body sculpting garments to go underneath slinky numbers.

To round off your look nicely, take a quick trip to the beauty department where you can pick up a gorgeous new signature scent, and some fresh new makeup to complement your outfit perfectly.

An hour spent at Debenhams.com could solve all of your formalwear problems, and have you looking like a society princess from head to toe. However, if your budget is decidedly more pauper than princess, or you want to save extra pennies to spend on Pimms and strawberries this summer, don’t forget to get your Debenhams Promo Code from 5hop5.co.uk first!