What to Wear to the Races

A model wears the full Percival Clifton suit in cream linen, featuring the double-breasted blazer, styled with sunglasses.

What is the dress code for race courses for men?

Gladrags for Goodwood—that’s the mantra. Well, it’s not, but it sounds good so we’re coining that now. You’re expected to dress smartly. In fact, you’re expected to dress very smartly indeed. The races are essentially a massive wedding but instead of brides and grooms, you’ve got bridles and grooming brushes.

What is race etiquette?

Don’t touch the horses, don’t make loud noises, try to avoid using your phone too much, dress appropriately (that’s why we’re here), and don’t try to go all Red Dead Redemption and race off into the Old West with nothing but a dream and a wallet full of gambling money.

Can I wear jeans to the races?

Jeans aren’t strictly prohibited as long as they’re smart, like these Straight Leg Jeans. Generally speaking, though, it’s probably best to avoid jeans at the races. Take this opportunity to dress up to the nines.

Men's Race Day Outfits for Attending the Key Events

Race day dressing has rules, but none of them are written down. Whether it’s your first time clutching a programme or your hundredth arguing about form, the brief stays the same. Percival’s menswear covers the full spectrum of men’s horse racing outfits.

You’re going to be seen. By strangers. By friends. By someone who will remember what you wore longer than who won the third. That’s why the suit matters. Percival designs them for race days where confidence is half the bet.

Our Top Menswear Recommendations for the Races

We told you to dress smart, but what does that even mean, Percival? Calm down, mate—let us help you. We’re talking suit jackets, smart trousers, a nice coat if it’s chilly, smart shoes—the works. Here are some solid, tangible examples for you.

Men's Suits

We have a whole wide range of races-ready smart Suits ready to go. Simply pick your favourite colour, texture, fit, and fabric. Then our smart Poplin shirt to go with it and you’re set. If you’re looking for a more specific look, we’ve got you sorted just a scroll-and-a-half below.

Race Day Coats

Depending on the time of year, you might need a coat for warmth, as well as your suit jacket. If it’s properly nippy, a Minnesota Overcoat is your friend. If you’re looking to plan ahead to the specific time of year the race is on, see our handy little race-specific guide below.

What is the Best Material to Wear to the Races?

You know when you see the pictures of men at the races, and there are loads of fellas who look like it’s their first time wearing a suit, like vacuum-packed turkeys basted in sweat? That’s not you. At least, it doesn’t have to be you as long as you choose your fit and your material well. Turkeys don’t sweat, by the way.

Twill
Linen
Cotton

In the heat, go for linen or seersucker—light and breathable materials that’ll keep you fresh and comfortable. In slightly chillier climes, twill, cotton, or even wool are good choices to keep you at absolute optimal race-watching temperature.

A model wears the Percival navy Sherlock short trench coat with dark trousers and holds a black bag.

Shop Waterproof Trench Coats

What to wear to the races in the rain?

You already know what we’re going to say, don’t you? Who makes the best waterproof mac money can buy? Us. Percival. We do. The Sherlock is perfect for a rainy day at the races, falling immaculately over your suit.

What to wear to the Cheltenham Festival 2026?

Cheltenham is in mid-March. Impossible to guess what the weather will be doing in the UK at that time of year. It might be 20 degrees Celsius, but it probably won’t be.

A Tailored Suit with a Peacoat

We’re going for a tailored linen blazer with matching trousers, paired with a Pea Coat. Those lapelles/collar are going to keep you toasty, whilst the shorter cut is going to allow you all the extra movement you need after a few cold beverages.

What to wear to Royal Ascot?

Royal Ascot is fancy. It’s got ‘Royal’ in the name—has to be fancy. Best dress fancy, then.

A Double Breasted Blazer

Your Royal Ascot outfit is a suit topped off with a Double-Breasted Blazer. Double-breasted blazers are very much back in style, and they are very, very schnappy. Trust us.

What to wear at the Grand National?

This is the big one, isn’t it. The horse race of all horse races. One horse race to race them all. We’re going classic for the National.

Three Piece Suits

The Grand National calls for a proper Three Piece Suit. Choose Navy Blue, Forest Green or Ecru Cream and giddy up.

What to wear to the Epsom Derby?

Epsom is in June, so plan (and pray) for a little bit of sunshine. Lighter tones and breathable fabric is the way forward.

Linen Suiting

You’re wearing a Linen Suit to Epsom. They’re tailored, they’re comfortable, and they look great. They’ll keep you cool in the heat, they’re easy to wear, and they come in a wide range of colours.

What to wear to the Kentucky Derby?

If you find yourself in the United States of America (provided it hasn’t changed its name by then—satire) and heading to the Kentucky Derby, we’ve got something special for you.

Linen Shorts

Remember that linen suit we were just talking about? Well, for when it’s extra hot outside—and it does get hot back in ol’ Kentucky during the summer—you can also opt for Linen Shorts to match your linen suit. We are not playing—snap them up.