Royal Ascot Sunglasses Etiquette

Royal Ascot is on and on this royal occasion we always feel compelled to showcase some of our most worthy sunglasses. As Ascot has attempted to define formal dress this year we expanded on the new code for the most prestigious racing event worldwide with some sunglasses etiquette. We have fingers crossed for the weather on Ladies Day this Thursday when the costume will give the horses a run for their money and we hope that sunglasses are put to good use.

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Under revised dress restrictions the focus on the clothes at Royal Ascot is more than ever. In a bid to raise the bar and keep dress over the five day event appropriate inspired by the Duchess of Cambridge’s example Ascot liased with the British Fashion Council. Pashminas, ties and hats are on hand with dress attendants to check those who fall short.

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As master milliner Stephen Jones said last year ‘it’s not a cocktail party’ and the same consideration probably should apply when choosing sunglasses. They are a powerful accessory and should be an extension of an outfit not an add on or an after thought. The Royals themselves have demonstrated great class at Ascot and simplicity always wins out even when it comes to making more of a statement. But there are always those that love to create a stir and for those there are some great sunglasses available for a double statement along with the hat.

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As with the world famous compulsory hat the sunglasses should match your face first before your fashion. Those that wish to let their hat do the talking should opt for a plain to the point frame. Those with a simpler hat can afford to go for more eye-catching shapes but we are inclined to think that your hat should be the main event and indeed if you are opting for an understated hat the best sunglasses compliment the hat's simplicity.

The statement should be made in shape rather than décor, so bling is not really the thing. Cat eyes, elegant wayfarers in black, tortoise and horn variations are great. If race goers at this prestigious event know what’s good for them they will be wearing sunglasses by the likes of Chanel, Victoria Beckham and Oliver Peoples who supply classic styling with serious class and flair.

Gradient lenses are perfect for such an event allowing you more wear through not so bright periods. Classic frame shapes with only a well executed statement flourish would ever do. But to be modern is certainly no faux pas.

Hats, heels and gloves are essential accessories. But even on Ladies Day it’s not just about the dress. Great sunglasses will allow for optimum viewing. And sunglasses can make or break an outfit. When it comes to such a critical occasion as Royal Ascot a poor choice can be disastrous. Elegance is paramount. But there is always room for a twist of course.

We should say that wild colours are best avoided; but there are some great colours out there at the moment that if wisely worked into the outfit could go down a storm, all but the experienced fashionista would be wise to keep to the more traditional hues and if they wish to break the rules a bit within that. Look out for our Ladies Day edit for more royally right sunglasses choices inspired by Royal Ascot.