The RSM Social Season Guide to
Buckingham Palace Garden Party
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A Buckingham Palace Garden Party is one of the most distinguished invitations of the British summer season, steeped in royal tradition and formal dress etiquette. Held within the gardens of Buckingham Palace, these events require formal daywear, where hats are an essential part of the dress code and are expected for all female guests.
For many first-time attendees, understanding the expectations of royal garden party dress can feel unfamiliar, particularly when navigating the balance between elegance, formality, and comfort within a strictly observed dress code.
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Traditionally, structured hats rather than small fascinators are favoured for royal garden parties, complementing tailored dresses, coats and refined occasionwear.
Lightweight silk and sinamay shapes which are sculpted to feel graceful and modern while retaining the timeless sophistication are a popular choice for our customers.
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Some of the most commonly asked questions…
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Structured hats and elegant couture millinery are most appropriate.
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Yes — all hats can be commissioned bespoke, made-to-order, or selected from ready-to-wear designs via private appointments in Sussex.
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Yes, you can see our current collection in our Lewes based boutique, as well as here on our website. We arrange appointments on request, which can be conducted in the boutique or by virtual appointment.
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Rachel’s customers often send her a photo of themselves wearing their RSM millinery. We share these photos on our social channels and in a dedicated Customer Gallery at the RSM Website.
We do our best to keep our Social Season Guide up to date, but event formalities, dress codes and society event expectations change and evolve, as do trends and styles. We encourage you to check with the event to ensure your chosen style remains appropriate and fits any dress code requirement or style. You can also contact us at the Rachel Skinner Millinery boutique with any questions for trends and requirements.
