The formal dress code at Royal Ascot was relaxed in a first for the racing event due to high summer temperatures.
The special horse racing week takes place in June each year, attended by a series of famous faces, including members of the royal family. Held in Berkshire, the Met Office on Thursday predicted sweltering temperatures of up to 31° in the region.
As a result, Royal Ascot announced the news that its dress code would be relaxed in all venues. They clarified that this meant racegoers would be allowed to remove their hats, ties and jackets after the royal procession, led by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
READ MORE: Kate laughs a lot at Ascot as she and William enjoy their day in the sweltering heat.
The change marked a rare break from tradition at the event, which typically sports an ultra-formal dress code. While the required attire differs slightly between precincts, in the most formal royal precinct men are specifically required to wear a waistcoat and tie – no ties or bow ties permitted – a black top hat or gray and black shoes worn with socks.
The dress code for women in the royal enclosure is similarly strict, stipulating that dresses and skirts should be no shorter than just above the knee. Strapless, off-the-shoulder, backless, or spaghetti-strap tops are not permitted, hats—or headpieces with a base of at least 4 inches—must be worn, and jumpsuits are permitted as long as they match the material and color .
Even at the most relaxed Windsor precinct, attendees are encouraged to wear “smart day wear”, which includes a hat or fascinator for the ladies and a jacket with a collared shirt for the gentlemen. The change to the dress code will no doubt have been welcomed by racing fans as temperatures soared in the heat wave.
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