Heading to a local track with some friends is not only a great way to spend a day tailgating and enjoying the weather. It’s a great excuse to dress up. The Royal Ascot, one of Britain’s oldest formal races, has a strict dress code. Perfect! Let’s use those guidelines to help us decide what to wear to horse races here in the Colonies.

For gentlemen, a suit with shirt and tie is required, naturally. For ladies, a hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times. Strapless and sheer dresses are not permitted (as if there could be any question about that).
Here are two looks that will keep you fashion-forward while hewing to traditional guidelines.