Race Day Outfits Inspired By The Princess of Wales

1) Polka Dot Perfection

First up, Kate’s race day outfit from Royal Ascot in 2022. It’s such a timeless look, wouldn’t you agree? I love the ‘vintage’ feel to it.

The Princess chose a dreamy cream and brown polka dot silk dress by Alessandra Rich with a high bow-tie neckline, paired with chocolate brown accessories.

Get The Look:

Want to channel this classic look? L.K. Bennett’s Polly Birch & Black Tie Neck Dress is a strong option.

We love the dress’s floaty silhouette, long sleeves and feminine neck-tie detail.

Kate styled her look with warm brown accessories, but the LK Bennett dress has black polka dots, so I’ve found black accessories to match— equally elegant and arguably easier to rewear.

First up, the Willow Black and White Wide Brim Hat. It echoes the high-impact feel of Kate’s, while the Dominica Clutch nails that classic but contemporary vibe.

On your feet, it has to be the leg-lengthening Fern Black Suede Courts, also from L.K. Bennett (Kate owns them in another shade). Prefer a lower heel? Try the Floret Courts instead, this will keep things smart while being easier to wear all day. Really can’t do heels? L.K. Bennett sell black suede courts with even lower heels, including the Ava and the Audrey styles.

Finish your look with a pair of stunning earrings. While Kate wore Princess Diana’s pearl drops, LK Bennett’s Calla Pearl Gold Earrings offer a similarly sophisticated touch — delicate, timeless, and just enough drama to peek out beneath your hat.

2) Lady in Red

Next, let’s look at the showstopping monochrome outfit Kate wore to 2023’s Royal Ascot.

The Princess turned heads in this bold red dress by Alexander McQueen, paired with equally striking accessories — all perfectly matched for the ultimate race day statement.

Get The Look:

If you’re after a race day outfit with serious wow-factor, this is the one to recreate!

The Lou Dress from L.K. Bennett nails the silhouette and colour palette with its vintage-inspired shape and soft satin finish.

The piping gives it a playful, tailored twist — perfect for a polished race day appearance without being too formal.

To top it off (literally), the Loop Detail Statement Disc Hat from Phase Eight is a dead-ringer for Kate’s Philip Treacy — dramatic, flattering, and ideal for sunny days at the races.

For shoes, the L.K. Bennett Audrey Aurora Red Kitten Heel Courts will keep you comfy from the parade ring to the Pimms tent, but if you want to turn up the glamour, try the Fern Dark Red Croc-Effect Heels instead.

Finally, finish with a red clutch—like L.K. Bennett’s gold-chain Florence Suede Bag—and pick your statement earrings: whether you love the playful red resin hoops or sculptural gold florals, they all nod to Kate’s original look while adding a modern, personal twist.

3) Polished in Powder Blue

At Ascot in 2019, the Princess of Wales (then Duchess of Cambridge) wore one of her most ethereal race day outfits to date: a delicate, light-blue ensemble by Elie Saab.

She finished the look with a matching floral hat, silver accessories and blue gemstone drop earrings.

Get The Look:

Want to recreate this soft, romantic race day ensemble? I have two fab fashion-forward options for you.

Dress Option I: Let’s start with this caped beauty from Self-Portrait. The blue Chiffon Midi Dress channels the same delicate, floaty feel as Kate’s Elie Saab original, with a sheer cape overlay, pussy-bow neckline and pleated midi skirt.

I’ve paired it with the John Lewis Penelope Fascinator. I think it delivers drama and polish with its sweeping brim and floral detail, echoing the impact of Kate’s Philip Treacy creation.

For earrings, I’ve selected the Sardinia Triple Teardrops in Silver Blue Topaz—the serene blue gemstones and Sterling silver metal complement the outfit beautifully.

The silver L.K. Bennett Floret Leather Heeled Courts are a good option for Kate’s Gianvito Rossi pumps.

I also love this metallic clutch (Accessorize via M&S) for tying the whole outfit together.

Dress Option II: If you prefer something a little more structured, try Self Portrait’s Blue Flower Lace Midi Dress.

The floral lace design and fit-and-flare shape capture Kate’s ladylike elegance.

Meanwhile, I’ve selected the Karen Millen Feather & Quill Disc Fascinator in Pale Blue for the floral dress. I thought it was a bold yet elegant choice.

For earrings, I’ve found these Blue Lace Agate Detail Earrings from M&S — an affordable dupe for Kate’s Kiki McDonough drops.

Shoes and handbag as above, L.K. Bennett and Accessorize.

4) Ladylike Lace

Our fourth and final race day outfit comes from Royal Ascot in 2016. The then-Duchess of Cambridge chose a romantic white lace look by Dolce & Gabbana.

She paired the delicate floral lace dress with neutral tones, including a raffia clutch and pearl earrings.

Get The Look:

If you want to channel Kate’s elegant Ascot style, try the Cecily Champagne & Gold Lace Tiered Maxi Dress by L.K. Bennett.

Its intricate lace, high neckline and romantic tiered skirt echo Kate’s Dolce & Gabbana dress. I think the champagne colour is more wearable than white too, this frock can be stashed away and reworn for a future summer wedding, garden party or christening.

Top off your look with the Ayla Cream Mesh Pearl Detail Fascinator, also from L.K. Bennett.

The wide brim and soft neutral tones evoke the same timeless, ladylike feel as Kate’s Jane Taylor hat.

Add LK Bennett’s Charlotte Glitter Box Clutch for a hint of sparkle.

On your feet? The Ivy Neutral Strap Sandals are sleek and minimal, while the Noelle Pale Gold Sandals give you that touch of glamour — both are comfortable enough to last through to the last race.

Finish the look with the Calla Pearl Earrings, a fitting nod to Kate’s elegant drops.

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Quick disclaimer: I’ve done my best to match colours on my monitor, but I haven’t seen any of these items in person, I’m afraid.

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