The Guineas Festival
NEWMARKET ROWLEY MILE 6th May 2,000 Guineas; 7th May 1,000 Guineas
Newmarket has two racecourses and The Rowley Mile is dubbed the‘ Course of Champions’ and the‘ most historic stretch of turf in the entire world of sport’. The Guineas races are two of the five‘ Classics’ for the season, as well as the start of the British Champions Series.
This is the first of the season’ s most elite racing festivals and while it does draw smart outfits, you will find racegoers aiming to dress more for‘ spring’ than for‘ summer’.
As the weather is unlikely to be roasting, you have the opportunity to wear a well-cut coat dress, tailored suit or dress with longer sleeves. Looser spring coats or beautifully belted macs / trench coats over structured dresses can also add subtle flair.
Use interesting accessories to spice up a more classic ensemble and to soften the cut of formal tailoring. Silk scarves, chunky jewellery, oversized handbags and large sunglasses can all be used to express your character and individuality.
However, don’ t fall into the trap of planning your headwear as your centerpiece. You’ ll find most racegoers opt not to wear one – aim for a professional hairdo or select stylish hair decorations instead. If you do love a headpiece, aim for elegant but understated, carrying through the brighter velvets or felt from the winter season, or making an early foray into the more summery sinamay and silk.
Below the hemline forget bare legs – the wind can be bitter at this time of year still and it’ s too early for a tan to look natural! Flesh-coloured tights are your friend, and pop a spare pair in your bag in case you ladder them.
For shoes, if you’ re happy to endure a day on heels, avoid stilettoes: although most of your walking will not be on grass, the parts that you do encounter are likely to be soft at this time of year, so chunkier heels or wedges will help you avoid that sinking feeling …
Men: a tweed jacket or suit will not go amiss although you may catch sight of an early season blazer. This is an occasion where the grey or blue suit is frequently
seen – see page 12 for how to accessorise a plain suit and make the most out of this choice of outfit on racedays.
Gentlemen need to also sidestep a hat faux pas: the Guineas Festival is too early to sport a traditional white Panama. Opt instead for a camel or navy coloured straw or felt trilby, even if the day is a scorcher. Save the Panama for later in the season.
THE COAT DRESS The Princess coat dress in powder blue can be worn alone as a dress or if the weather is chilly can be worn as a spring coat with a slim dress or slim trousers underneath. Price £ 1,150 from Suzannah. Update the coat dress look with a pair of fashionable embroidered ankle boots. The light golden toned floral brocade of these Roxanne boots ensures they are not out of step even in warm weather. Price £ 295 from Russell & Bromley. Team with accessories opposite.
20 SUMMER RACING FASHION GUIDE 2017 ECLIPSEMAGAZINE. CO. UK