Royal Ascot 2026 takes place between Tuesday 16 June and Saturday 20 June. Across five days, racing, fashion and pageantry combine. Whether you’re attending Ladies Day on Thursday – dubbed the Gold Cup Day – or the final day, concluding with one of the world’s greatest sprint races, the question of what to wear remains.
Fashion and Royal Ascot have been fundamentally linked since the introduction of a strict dress code in 1807. Beau Brummell, a close friend of the future King George IV, ordered that men attending should wear waisted black coats, white cravats and pantaloons.
The Royal Enclosure’s dress code was established in 1820, before Queen Victoria popularised hats in the 1830s after wearing a porter bonnet to the races. The trend for women’s millinery attire has endured.
Throughout the 20th century, Royal Ascot fashion was influenced by social norms. Prim and proper Edwardian gowns were replaced by shorter skirts and parasols in the 1920s. In the post-war period, Christian Dior’s “new look” seeped into the Royal Enclosure, where Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret made a case for cinched waists and fuller skirts. Pantsuits were permitted in the 1970s, and sharp tailoring took over in the 1980s – see Princess Diana’s shoulder pads, cropped blazers, and famous printed skirt suits.
While trends change and hemlines fluctuate, headwear has remained a mandatory fixture for two centuries. Be it a retro bonnet, a heavy-brimmed hat or a whimsical fascinator, a hat is required in most enclosures – without one, you could be denied entry. With time running out to secure your headpiece, I’ve found five fascinators that will arrive with next-day delivery, in time for Royal Ascot 2026.
Karen Millen bow blush fascinator
With its delicate feather detailing, statement wide brim and feminine blush pink finish, this fascinator will add the final flourish to your Royal Ascot look.
Phase Eight spot disk fascinator
Polka dot is a prevailing trend for summer, and this Phase Eight fascinator is an elegant way to embrace the classic print. The chiffon navy and cream appliqué is attached to a thin headband.
Karen Millen flower trim blue fascinator
Characterised by its statement oversized design and woven abaca finish, this pale blue fascinator is complete with a sculptural floral applique. A discrete headband ensures a secure fit.
Karen Millen asymmetric flower and quill fascinator
The natural straw material pares down the dramatic, angled and netted design of this fascinator. Complete with a black floral embellishment and classic quill detail, the headwear piece is easily repurposed for weddings.
Coast side facing blue fascinator
Adding a pop of colour to your Royal Ascot outfit, this Coast fascinator features a side-facing design and striking teal finish. Crafted from abaca, the hat boasts a curved disc base and elegant bow detailing.
