The RSM Social Season Guide to
the Races
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Race-day dressing remains one of the great traditions of the British social season, where fashion and millinery are as much a part of the occasion as the racing itself. From formal enclosures and Ladies’ Day events to relaxed countryside meetings, understanding what to wear to the races often depends entirely on the setting, dress code and atmosphere of the event. For many first-time racegoers, choosing the right hat can feel overwhelming and striking the balance between elegance, practicality and individuality.
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Some occasions call for dramatic statement hats with sculptural silhouettes and couture detailing, while others favour softer straw pieces and contemporary fascinators styled with lighter tailoring and modern occasion wear. During private appointments, we guide clients towards shapes, proportions and finishes that feel entirely appropriate for both the event and their personal style.
From formal race-day dressing to relaxed summer meetings, our handcrafted millinery offers a contemporary interpretation of classic British occasion style.
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Some of the most commonly asked questions…
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At many race meetings, hats are not strictly required for general admission, but they are expected or required in certain enclosures and events. For example, formal areas at Royal Ascot require hats for women, while other racecourses simply expect smart race-day dressing where hats are the norm rather than the rule.
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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.
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Your enclosure and event determine the level of formality.
Formal enclosures (e.g. Royal Ascot Royal Enclosure) call for structured, statement hats or sculptural millinery.
Less formal race days allow softer hats, straw styles, or elegant fascinators.
Country race meetings are usually more relaxed, but still favour polished pieces rather than casual headwear.
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Classic race-day millinery includes:
Wide-brimmed straw hats
Structured sinamay hats
Boater-style hats (especially for summer events)
Fascinators or headpieces for slightly less formal enclosures
The key is balance between elegance, proportion, and wearability for a full day outdoors.
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.
