What to Wear to the Races: Ladies’ Day Style

Step into race-day dressing with Adjoa Odetayo as she shares her go-to looks, styling tips and the secrets to mastering races style with confidence.

Race season marks the moment everything shifts. The invites start landing, the dress codes get a little more considered, and getting dressed becomes part of the occasion itself. From the heritage feel of Cheltenham to the polished formality of Ascot and the softer, summer energy of Goodwood, each race day brings its own mood and its own approach to style.

For Adjoa, race-day dressing is about embracing that elevated, occasionwear feel while still having fun with fashion. Ladies’ Day, in particular, is the perfect excuse to go all out. It is a space where tailoring meets statement prints, where accessories take centre stage, and where personal style still leads the way.

Whether you are attending your first race day or refining your look for the season ahead, this is how to approach race day dressing with confidence.

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Written By: Adjoa Odetayo - Published: 02.04.26

Start with the Base: Tailoring vs Dresses

Every race day look starts with understanding the setting.

Race season marks the start of summer social dressing in the UK. What does race-day style mean to you, especially when it comes to Ladies’ Day?

Race-day style for me is all about embracing that elevated, occasionwear feel while still having fun with fashion. Ladies’ Day, in particular, is such a moment to really dress up and also get inspiration from other women’s outfits. I love that it gives you the opportunity to go all out, whether that’s with tailoring, colour, or standout accessories.

When you’re putting together a race-day outfit, where do you usually start – the dress, the shoes, or the overall feel of the look?

I typically consider the vibe of the location first. With Cheltenham, the feel is very British heritage, tweeds, checks, and a more tailored aesthetic, which is why I chose a suit for a structured look. For somewhere like Ascot, I’d be more inclined to start with a dress and then build the look around it with accessories like a hat or fascinator to really complete the outfit.

Making a Statement: Style, Colour and Confidence

Ladies’ Day is known for bold fashion moments. How do you make a statement while still staying true to your personal style?

For me, it’s about balance. I love incorporating a statement element, whether that’s colour, texture, or a standout accessory, but keeping the overall look wearable. I always make sure whatever I’m wearing still feels like me, something I feel confident and comfortable in, because that’s what really makes a look stand out.

Race season is a great time to experiment with colour and print. Are there any styles you find yourself returning to each year?

I always gravitate towards classic tailoring because it is in keeping with my personal style, just a bit more elevated. It feels really appropriate for race season, but can still be styled in a fresh way each year, and I love to experiment with colour, depending on the event.

Accessories That Elevate the Look

For someone attending Ladies’ Day for the first time, what key pieces would you recommend investing in for a polished race day look?

I think selecting the right handbag is key! I love the pink Coach Tabby bag that I wore to Ladies’ Day at Cheltenham because not only did it add a pop of colour to my look, but it was also the perfect size to carry everything I needed for the day, including makeup for touch-ups.

Accessories can really elevate a race day outfit. What finishing touches do you rely on to pull a look together?

Choosing the right shoes makes all the difference and is the final touch that pulls a look together. The croc-effect pumps I wore from Dune were perfect because they weren’t too high and were really comfortable to wear all day, but the pointed shape gave such a polished, formal finish that paired perfectly with my outfit.

What are some easy ways to take a race-day outfit from simple to standout?

Accessories are the easiest way to elevate a look. Adding a statement hat or fascinator instantly transforms even the simplest outfit. I also think playing with textures, like pairing structured tailoring with softer fabrics, or adding a bold bag or shoe, can really make the outfit feel more styled and intentional.

Comfort, Layers and All-Day Dressing

Race days can be long and often outdoors. How do you make sure your outfit stays comfortable while still looking put-together all day?

Comfort is so important for race days because you’re often on your feet all day. I always think about fabrics and fit; something breathable and not too restrictive is key. Comfortable footwear is a must, and I’ll often bring layers like a blazer or tailored coat, so I’m prepared for the unpredictable British weather while keeping the look elevated.

For someone who prefers a more minimal look, how can they still feel dressed for the occasion?

Even the simplest outfit can make a statement with beautiful jewellery, a standout handbag, and a chic hat or fascinator. It’s about keeping the base outfit clean and minimal, then letting the details do the talking. Even a red lip can elevate your look.

Looking Ahead: This Season’s Style

Looking ahead to the rest of this race season, what race day styles are you most excited to wear?

I’m really excited to lean into more suiting this season - this was actually my first time wearing a full suit to an event, and I loved it! So for upcoming race days, I’m thinking soft tailoring, and I’d also love to play with more colour, especially pastels and brighter tones for summer events. It’s such a fun opportunity to experiment with my style.