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