What to Wear to Cheltenham Festival: Ultimate Outfit Guide

With Cheltenham Festival 2023 fast approaching, exude confidence in your outfit as we give our top style tips for the races.

As one of the most famous jump racing events, Cheltenham Festival is a highlight of the sporting and social calendars, attracting celebrities and royals to its grounds each year.

If you are wondering what to wear to the races, we are here to help ensure that you look the part and avoid any fashion faux-pas with our ultimate guide to country elegance for the 2023 season.

Cheltenham Festival dress code

Cheltenham Festival does not exercise a dress code, but there are some unspoken rules to guarantee that you will fit the crowd and impress on race day.

While guests are not required to dress smartly, it is recommended to choose an outfit that fits in with the country-smart style of simplistic elegance that racegoers so often adopt for the Festival.

You will also want to bear in mind that Cheltenham takes place in March so the Festival can experience colder and wetter weather conditions, setting it apart from the summer dress and linen suit style seen at other race days such as Ascot.

For some outfit inspiration, keep reading as we show you how to put together a classy look that is guaranteed to impress in 2023.

Cheltenham Festival ladies outfit ideas

From blazers through to coats and dresses, tweed is a staple at Cheltenham Festival. Female racegoers often adopt this material for a country chic style that is also guaranteed to keep you warm.

Layering is a must to prepare for all weather eventualities at Cheltenham. Think cashmere and wool jumpers, as well as scarves and gloves for a look that is both practical and fashionable.

Hats and fedoras are guaranteed to take your outfit to the next level. Unlike summer race days, Cheltenham guests do not opt for fascinators, but select dark toned headbands, or larger hats and fedoras. If you would like to accessorise even more, many ladies like to spruce up their Cheltenham outfits with faux-fur scarves!

Remember that much of Cheltenham Festival is grass-based, and with colder weather conditions, heels are not recommended. Opt for knee high boots with a small heel to keep your feet and legs warm, as well as adding to your country look.

Check out our photo of Maddie (Seat Unique Office Manager) above for some style inspiration!

Cheltenham Festival mens outfit ideas

Men’s outfits at Cheltenham should be both practical and fashionable. Think Peaky Blinders with a country twist and you’re on the right track!

Opt for a thicker wool or tweed suit jacket to keep you warm while remaining smart and looking “put together”. Some racegoers select a classic shirt as an accompaniment, while others choose to wear smart knitted jumpers or three-quarter zips for maximum layering and toastiness.

Unlike other race days, Cheltenham Festival is more open to jeans as a trouser option for men. Select a dark coloured denim or match your trousers with your suit jacket to bring your look together.  

To remain weather conscious and practical, veer away from loafers and steer towards a traditional oxford or brogue in a darker colour. Alternatively, some gentlemen style their outfits with boots.

If you would like to polish your look off with a hat, we recommend a sturdy flat cap (flimsy caps are not smart enough for Cheltenham), or a fedora.

How can I get Cheltenham Festival tickets?

If you are now feeling inspired to put together a stylish outfit for Cheltenham Festival, make sure that you show it off in one of the wonderful hospitality suites on offer.

With an array of restaurant hospitality options as well as private boxes and premium suites including the Green Room on offer, secure your place at Cheltenham Festival 2023 and ensure that you enjoy a day of luxury by enquiring with Seat Unique now.

Interested in premium race day experiences? Check out all of our horse racing hospitality offerings for 2022/23 now!