The RSM Social Season Guide to
Goodwood
-
Glorious Goodwood captures a distinctly English approach to occasion dressing, and is glamorous yet relaxed, polished yet closely tied to its countryside setting. Set against the rolling landscape of the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex, the event is known for its elegant but less formal atmosphere compared with Royal Ascot, offering a more effortless interpretation of race-day style.
While still rooted in tradition, Goodwood encourages a softer, more relaxed sense of occasion dressing, making it one of the most enjoyable and expressive summer events to dress for.
-
For RSM sutomers, Goodwood is often associated with expressive, fashion-led millinery that balances impact with comfort for a full day of racing and hospitality. Sculptural straw hats, silk-trimmed sinamay designs, and softly structured statement pieces work particularly well in this setting, pairing naturally with flowing dresses, tailored separates, and refined race-day dressing.
Certain enclosures at Goodwood encourage a more individual approach to style than the more formal race meetings, making it an especially popular occasion for contemporary millinery with artistic detail and distinctive craftsmanship.
-
Some of the most commonly asked questions…
-
Yes, but it is more relaxed than Ascot, allowing greater fashion freedom.
-
Yes — all hats can be commissioned bespoke, made-to-order, or selected from ready-to-wear designs via private appointments in Sussex.
-
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.
-
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.
