The Cheltenham Festival in March is the highlight of the National Hunt calendar. But what to wear when trotting between paddock and party? The Field has some suggestions...
Mid-March weather fluctuates between icy gales, downpours or more clement weather. This can make what to wear for the Cheltenham Festival a thorny problem. The key is to be prepared for both ends of the spectrum and have layers. Bear in mind, this isn’t Ascot or even Aintree. The following dress ideas for ladies will help you decide what to wear for Cheltenham.
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Coats and capes for a winning look
A flattering coat or cape should be the first question on the list when thinking about what to wear for Cheltenham. It is the most important piece of any Cheltenham ensemble. Not only will it be key to keeping you the right temperature but will most likely be what is most on show.
This cashmere cape from House of Bruar come in four hues: driftwood (pictured) country green, classic black and mid grey. It’s just the sort of versatile number that you can either fasten up – and even make use of the luxurious hood – if the weather is unkind or drape more loosely if mild.
A luxurious fox fur and cashmere cape from House of Bruar: ideal Cheltenham wear
We love also Purdey’s scarf cape, made from a luxurious double-face, cashmere-wool blend. Undoubtedly, a timeless investment piece.
An exquisite double-face, wool-cashmere blend scarf cape from Purdey
Holland Cooper has a great range of smart coats. Some, such as the full-length Marlborough trench coat, have coordinating separates.
Coordinating straight-leg trousers are also available from Holland Cooper
When considering what to wear to Cheltenham or any National Hunt meeting, you can’t go wrong with a classic tweed along the lines of Farlows’ Hampton tweed jacket, made in England from tweed milled in the Borders.
If in doubt about what to wear at Cheltenham, it is hard to go wrong with a classic tweed such as this jacket from Farlows
If it is set fair at Cheltenham
If you’re lucky enough to have fine spring weather at the Festival or things get a little cosy at the bar, it is important to look the part underneath that coat. Waring Brooke’s snaffle skirts are British made from 100% merino wool and come in either pencil or longline length.
Alternatively, anyone on the hunt for a tweed skirt should take a look at Joules‘ selection, which includes the Avery Check knee-length skirt (below).
In search of a tweed skirt for Cheltenham: the Avery skirt is just the thing
KaHo’s immeasurably pretty block print shirts have exquisite cuffs and collars in contrasting fabrics – just the thing for anyone who feels their Cheltenham outfit requires a pop of colour. There’s a lovely array to choose from.
Kaho has a super selection of block-print shirts for a pop of colour
The Cheltenham bag
Finding the right bag for racing days is like backing a long shot. Hard to do but thoroughly exciting when you pull it off. Vintage skin or fur editions look great but can be unwieldy. This elegant East West tote from Aspinal London is a great size to keep all your kit together and comes in 11 shades. A zipped top closure, long straps to wear comfortably on the shoulder and two phone-sized slip pockets mean it is practical too.
Best foot forward to the Festival
Stylish but comfortable and practical footwear is an absolute must at Cheltenham. An elegant fitted long leather boot always works, as do Spanish riding boots. Just ensure the heel is turf friendly. You don’t want to get stuck as you’re cheering on the winner up the hill. Dubarry has a wide selection of boots. This includes its Downpatrick long boots and, increasingly popular, shorter lengths such a these Bray Chelsea boots. (See below.)
Fairfax & Favor is another parade ring favourite. It has an excellent selection of ankle boots – perfect for those big on style but maybe short on stature who want to be sure of a good view.
To top it all off
It is more and more usual to see head-turning millinery at Cheltenham. However, one can never go wrong with a well-made fedora or trilby. Lock & Company has a wonderful selection, while Hicks & Brown has a whole Cheltenham selection. For something a little bit different, take a peek at Acre & Holt’s wide selection of baker boy caps on offer in a variety of not just gorgeous tweeds but also corduroy and sumptuous purple velvet.
Fedora from Hicks & Brown
However, if you really want to go to town with what you wear at Cheltenham – this countryside mecca – take a look at the ravishing designs of Cotswold milliner Lisa Von Hallwyl, such as this showstopper below.
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This article was first published in 2016 and has been updated.