The Racing Season Edit: Where to Go & What to Wear in 2026

There aren’t many moments in the social calendar that match racing season. From the heritage and pageantry of British racecourses to the energy of American and Australian events, it’s just as much about style as what’s happening on the track.

At Lock & Co. Hatters, we see racing season as an opportunity to embrace timeless elegance, where the right hat doesn’t just complete a look, it defines it.

Here’s your guide to the most exciting races of the season, what to expect, and what to wear.

  • Grand National Festival (Aintree), 9-11 April 2026 (Liverpool, England)
  • Kentucky Derby, 2 May 2026 (Louisville, Kentucky, USA)
  • Royal Ascot, 16-20 June 2026 (Berkshire, England)
  • Melbourne Cup, 3 November 2026 (Melbourne, Australia)

Grand National Festival (Aintree), 9-11 April 2026 (Liverpool, England)

What’s happening

Held at Aintree Racecourse, the Grand National is one of the most famous steeplechases in the world. It’s a thrilling, high-energy event with a lively, less formal atmosphere compared to the summer flat racing calendar.

What to wear

Style here leans more relaxed but still polished. Think smart daywear with a practical edge, April weather can be unpredictable so consider a hat that pairs well with a jacket or coat.

Hat styling

  • Structured felt hats or elegant trilbies.
  • Neutral tones or subtle colour accents.
  • Styles that balance sophistication with wearability.

Hat Styles for Men:

  • Flat Caps & Bakerboy Caps: Stylish and a practical choice, often in tweed or wool to match blazers or tailored suits for a classic and smart-casual look.
  • Fedoras & Trilbies: Ideal for adding a touch of classic class, with felt options being practical for April weather.
  • Top Hats: While not required, these are perfectly acceptable for those wearing traditional morning suits or looking to go
    ultra-formal. 
Craig Blue Fedora
£395.00
UK VAT included.

Hat Styles for Women:

  • Statement Saucer Hats: Large saucer hats or wide-brimmed styles like the Joan Boater are popular for making a dramatic impact, especially on Ladies' Day.
  • Fascinators & Headbands: Feathered, floral, or bow fascinators attached to headbands are popular for a stylish, secure fit.
  • Pillbox & Cocktail Hats: Elegant choices like the Rialto Halo or the Jackie Pillbox provide a classic, sophisticated look.

Kentucky Derby, 2 May 2026 (Louisville, Kentucky, USA)

What’s happening

Held at Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Derby is as famous for its fashion as it is
for the race itself. The Kentucky Derby is often considered the American equivalent to Royal Ascot. Expect bold colours, big crowds, and an unmistakable sense of occasion.

What to wear

This is maximalism at its finest, bright hues, dramatic silhouettes, and expressive styling. Straw is generally preferred for comfort in the May heat.

Hat styling

  • Oversized hats with wide brims.
  • Vibrant colours, florals, and embellishment.
  • The more eye-catching, the better.

Hat Styles for Men:

  • Fedoras & Panama Hats: The most common choice, offering a classic, dapper look suitable for both casual and formal Derby attire. Discover our Panama and sun hat styles here.
  • Pork Pies: Recognized by a squared-off top with a deep groove, this style adds a distinct, fashionable touch.
  • Bowlers: A nod to traditional horse
    racing, this offers a structured, vintage look.
  • Flat Caps & Newsboys: A more relaxed and low-key option.
  • Cowboy Hats: A bold, increasingly popular choice, particularly in clean straw or felt.
Sinatra Porkpie
£395.00
UK VAT included.

Hat Styles for Women:

  • Wide-Brimmed Hats: Known as the traditional "Derby Hat," these range from elegant to very large to make a statement. Often chosen for both fashion and sun protection.
  • Fascinators: Smaller, intricate headpieces that sit on top of the head using a headband or clip. These have gained popularity for being easier to manage than larger hats.
  • Cocktail Hats & Headbands: Smaller pieces that often incorporate mesh veiling, feathers, or floral elements.

Royal Ascot, 16-20 June 2026 (Berkshire, England)

What’s happening

Royal Ascot is the pinnacle of the British racing and social season. With strict
dress codes, particularly in the Royal Enclosure, it’s an event where sartorial
excellence is expected.

What to wear

Formal, considered, and impeccably styled. Dresses should be tailored and modest in length, paired with elegant accessories. For everything you need to know about dress codes for each enclosure, plus answers to common questions, explore our Royal Ascot guide.

Hat styling

  • Statement hats or sculptural designs.
  • Fascinators (where permitted) or full hats depending on enclosure.
  • Bold yet elegant pieces that command attention.

Explore our full Ascot collection here, featuring pieces carefully selected by our team and their personal favourites.

Learn more on how to wear and style a top hat.

Hat Styles for Men:

  • Royal Enclosure: For the Royal Enclosure at Royal Ascot, men must wear a traditional black or grey top hat. While not mandatory in other enclosures, hats are encouraged, with Panama hats being a popular stylish choice for warmer weather. Top hats must be worn at all times outdoors in the Royal Enclosure.
  • Alternative Enclosures (Queen Anne, Village & Windsor): Hats are not strictly required for men in these areas, but a smart Panama hat or similar formal style is appropriate to complete the look.
Ascot Top Hat
£595.00
UK VAT included.

Hat Styles for Women:

  • Royal Enclosure: A headpiece or hat must have a solid base of at least 4 inches (10cm). Fascinators are explicitly not permitted.
  • Queen Anne & Village Enclosure: Hats are required, but a hatinator or larger headpiece is acceptable.
  • Windsor Enclosure: No formal hat requirement, but stylish hats or fascinators are encouraged.
  • General Guidelines: Hats should be worn all day. Avoid novelty hats (e.g., promotional items). 

Melbourne Cup, 3 November 2026 (Melbourne, Australia)

What’s happening

Known as “the race that stops a nation,” the Melbourne Cup is the centrepiece of
Australia’s spring racing carnival, combining sport, fashion, and celebration.

What to wear

Spring-ready outfits in fresh colours and lighter fabrics dominate, often paired with
statement accessories.

Hat styling

  • Contemporary millinery or structured fascinators.
  • Light, bright tones or modern neutrals.
  • Playful yet polished designs.

Hat Styles for Men:

  • Fedoras: A timeless choice, especially felt models with a structured brim for a sophisticated look.
  • Trilby Hats: Known for a shorter brim, the trilby is a popular, slightly more casual option for adding class to a suit.
  • Panama Hats: An ideal, stylish option for warmer spring days, offering a classic straw look.
  • Bakerboy & Flat Caps: 8 piece bakerboy caps or Tweed flat caps provide a slightly more relaxed or retro style.

Hat Styles for Women:

  • Wide-Brimmed Hats: The most popular choice for balancing fashion with sun protection.
  • Sculptural Fascinators: Ideal for those seeking something lighter than a hat, often incorporating feathers or floral accents.
  • Headbands & Crowns: A modern alternative to full hats or fascinators, offering structure with comfort.
  • Pillbox Hats: Offer a classic, vintage glamour look, often featuring netting or veiling.

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