Who Says the Horse Shoes Are More Important?

Royal Ascot

With the Epsom Derby still fresh in our minds (commiserations, Your Majesty) it's now time for the main event. And no, we're not getting all of a flutter over odds and other equine-related trivia; we're in it for the fashion. Which can only mean one thing - it's Royal Ascot next week!

When it comes to racing and fashion, the two seem to go hand-in-hand. There isn't a racecourse left, that doesn't award the 'Best Dressed' woman and it's expected that we'll open the papers the morning after a big race meet to be greeted with an in-depth analysis of the fashion; good and bad!

My Fair Lady - Ascot (1964)

Undoubtedly this fascination with racing outfits has stemmed from the most famous meet,  Royal Ascot. It has been the epicentre of race-related fashion since it's founding exactly 300 years ago.

This was encapsulated in the 1964 film 'My Fair Lady' with Audrey Hepburn. The monochrome-themed Ascot scene is arguably one of the most visually stunning scenes in any movie, fashion-wise.

Kate, Duchess of Cambridge

It's easy enough to get caught up in the fuss around whether it should be hats or fascinators, maxi dresses or shifts, jackets or wraps. Shoes can go unnoticed until it's too late and in our opinion they are the most important piece to the whole lot! After hours of standing on turf or gravel, whether in the stands or queuing for the bar and marquees, your feet are sure to take something of a battering.

That means the challenge is on; to find a chic shoe that is completely race-friendly. Kate, Duchess of Cambridge recently showed us how it was done, in beautiful neutral tones with mid-heels that are sure to compliment any outfit.



These stunning courts (right, £139.95, HERE) are the funky way to wear a classic style. A little bit vintage, a little bit rock'n'roll, these gorgeous shoes are sure to provide the most amazing comfort and look great teamed with either an elegant shift or a girly, floral prom-style dress.


Alternatively, if you aren't lucky enough to be graced with the use of the Royal box, shapely wedges provide that extra touch of stability. These stunning silver wedges (below, £79.95, HERE) have just enough 'bling' to provide that extra shot of glamour to any skirt length, especially those on-trend maxi and midi-skirts.

You'll even be able to go straight from the course to the restaurant and last all evening! Now you can't say that about many shoes!

If heels just aren't your thing and you're more at home in finely cut trousers and a fitted jacket, then there's no need to think that you can't have you own share of fun. Pretty ballet pumps in neon shades like these (left and below right, £89.95, HERE) mean you can go with neutral linens or plain fabrics and still jazz it up with accessories. You'll also be in fine stomping form all day! No emergency respite for your feet here.



But whatever your style, if you're going to Ascot, enjoy and pick us some winners! Go on!!