The Royal Ascot: Where Hats Steal the Show
The Royal Ascot, a prestigious British racing event known for its high-class horses and even higher-class fashion, has once again dazzled attendees with its extravagant millinery. From piles of books to a block of Stilton cheese, the hats at Ascot are as outrageous as they are eye-catching.
Founded in 1711 by Queen Anne, the Royal Ascot has become synonymous with over-the-top hats that rival the races themselves. The tradition of extravagant headwear may have been popularized by movies like “My Fair Lady” and the iconic black and white lace hat worn by Eliza Doolittle at her Ascot debut, or by Queen Elizabeth II, whose love for horses and hats is well-known.
According to renowned milliner Stephen Jones, the game of hat-upmanship at Ascot is as heated as ever. The dress code mandates that all attendees wear hats, with those in the exclusive Royal Enclosure required to sport a base at least four inches in diameter. This rule has led to a trend of bigger and bolder hats, with guests opting for elaborate creations that push the boundaries of traditional millinery.
While some attendees opted for more traditional hat styles favored by Queen Camilla and Catherine, Princess of Wales, others went all out with their headwear. From hats made of Sweethearts candy to portable pink huppahs adorned with flowers and butterflies, the creativity on display at Ascot knows no bounds.
Even Princess Eugenie got in on the fun with a snazzy boater hat featuring a long tassel that caught the attention of Prince William. Despite the outrageousness of some hats, Jones believes that the essence of fashion lies in having fun and expressing oneself through clothing.
So, as the horses race around the track at the Royal Ascot, all eyes are on the spectacular hats that adorn the heads of attendees, proving that when it comes to fashion, sometimes the most outrageous choice is the best one.
