What to Wear to Cheltenham Festival 2024

If you’re feeling stuck in a fashion rut and wondering what to wear to the races, we’re bringing our quintessential Fairfax & Favor outfit inspiration to you in this carefully curated styling guide to assist you with your choices.

As one of the key events of the year, the Cheltenham Festival in Gloucestershire takes place annually in March and attracts people from across the UK to enjoy four days of extraordinary horse racing.

The famous faces regularly spotted at Cheltenham include the likes of actors Emilia Fox and Alexander Armstrong, musician Rod Stewart, tennis star Andy Murray and TV presenter Carol Vorderman. The late Queen’s granddaughter Zara and her husband Mike Tindall are also frequent visitors to the event. Being in such highly esteemed company, there’s more of a need to bring your best Cheltenham races outfit ideas to life!

The Cheltenham festival has no strict dress code rules to adhere to, but that certainly doesn’t stop attendees from dressing up for the four day spectacle. You’ll most likely see stand-out outfits from other festival goers, with ladies showing off extravagant hat designs and unique designer two-pieces and men dressed in their finest countrywear.

Firstly, it’s important to bear in mind that the wonderful British weather could equally spoil us with sunshine or rain in early spring time and you’ll be spending most of the event outdoors, so it is best to be prepared. Bring along your fedora hats and umbrellas to cover all eventualities whilst also looking suitably on-trend on the concourse.

Ladies, also be aware that high heels may not be suitable for the terrain, as two-thirds of the racecourse car parks are on grass, so it’s best to opt for boots when it comes to footwear. With this in mind, you could plan your outfit around a pair of stylish leather knee-high boots or ankle boots. Cream coloured skinny jeans tucked into tan knee-high boots, with a long sleeved shirt and brought together with a camel trench coat cinched at the waist is a neutral hued, fashionable ensemble to take you stylishly to the bar from the viewing areas throughout the day.

Our Fairfax & Favor top picks are the Regina’s or Belgravia’s for the perfect knee high or ankle boot. The Frances trench is also a perfect pick for that outerwear layer, that is both stylish and flattering.

Another option when attending the Gold Cup day at Cheltenham is to wear a tweed mini skirt over thick tights and a cashmere roll-neck jumper topped off with a chic cape for something a little different for your outerwear. Accessorise with a leather cross-body such as the Finsbury, bag as a functional way to bring the ensemble together. This elegant look is ideal for the races, and when teamed with a pair of iconic Chelsea boots, you’ll be ready to enjoy the events of the day.

As the weather may be changeable in March, it is important to consider layers and varying textures to keep you warm throughout the day’s events. A lambswool scarf and suede gloves will help keep off the chill without compromising on your overall look.

For the gentlemen looking to make an impression with their outfits at Cheltenham races this year, stand out from the crowd and think of sharp tailoring showcasing tartan and checks with a modern twist. A Prince of Wales tartan suit in light grey or beige teamed with a black roll-neck and premium leather Chelsea boots is a stunning updated take on the classic country attire ideal for a racing event.

Classic tweed will always be a reliable staple for the dapper gent when it comes to what to wear to Cheltenham races. A tweed waistcoat with a plain Oxford shirt, tie and blazer with light coloured trousers is an excellent way of introducing a touch of country style to your race outfit. Complete the look with a pair of leather lace-up ankle boots and accessorise with a flat cap.

Fans of the more smart-casual aesthetic can represent their relaxed style by wearing dark wash indigo jeans, brown ankle boots and a checked shirt. Complete the look with a waxed jacket or a tweed blazer combination for a laidback finish that would be right at home at Cheltenham festival.

So, now you’ve got a better idea of what to wear to the races this year it’s time to browse the superb collections available right here at Fairfax & Favor and find the next perfect addition to your wardrobe. From luxury leather boots and premium quality coats to expertly designed accessories, we’ve got everything you need to enhance your look - no matter the occasion.