What to Wear to the Grand National
The Grand National is a staple event within the horse-racing calendar. The history of the event can be traced back to the early 1800s when the first races were held at Aintree. Originally titled ‘The Grand Liverpool Steeplechase’, The Grand National consisted of horses having to jump a stone wall, cross a stretch of ploughed land and finish over two-hurdles. The race moved from a weight-for-age race to a handicap in 1843 by Mr Edward William Topham, and hasn’t looked back since.
There are famous landmarks surrounding the course, synonymous with The Grand National and its overriding general experience, making this one of the most famous races for fans to see. Becher’s Brook, the Canal Turn, Valentine’s and Chair are recognised by the millions who watch the race each year.
This event has not only created dreams, but equally shattered them whilst producing legends of the sport and is one of the most watched races on the calendar from around the world, bringing in 150,000 racegoers from around the country to watch the prestigious event.
For those who can get tickets, the event is a chance to dress up and look your best, whilst enjoying the best of horse racing, but what exactly do you wear, and is there a formal dress code?
What to Wear on the Day
Whilst there’s no official dress code at Aintree, smart is often adopted throughout and encouraged with bold, colourful dresses and eccentric headwear. The festival sees three glorious days of world class horseracing, but it’s often what you wear that can stand out with the style award on Ladies’ Day and the chance of winning a brand new Range Rover Evoque.
Sportswear and fancy dress are not allowed in however.
Ladies
Bigger and bolder probably means better when it comes to Aintree, and if you look at any images of past events, you will see a wall of colour with bright dresses, floral skirts and luxurious lace adorned from head to toe.
Your footwear is an important part of any outfit and high heels will add height and elegance to your look. Our sister company Rainbow Club dye to match shoes for any occasion so if you’re looking for a colour match then look no further.
Our favourites for Aintree include Reese, Nelly and Coco in ivory or Glitter Bomb fabrics.
In addition to the heels, you can also have a clutch bag dyed to match too from a variety of materials and designs.
The colours of choice this year are Flame Scarlett, Saffron and Classic Blue that are sure to add a bright theme to your outfit and accessories.
Gentlemen
As with the ladies, the gents can get suited and booted with colourful jackets and bright trousers to stand out, but if you’re more traditional a light grey or navy suit can’t go wrong. You can add a pocket square for the added flamboyance though if that takes your fancy.
A lot of men will be making their best efforts to look like Peaky Blinders headman Thomas Shelby whilst at the races, donning flat caps, tweed jackets and three piece suits. Whilst you’ll look the part, we hope the antics of Birmingham’s most infamous mob aren’t followed whilst you’re out at the races.
For your feet, we have a selection of tweed brogues in both brown and navy, perfect for matching suits that’ll add class to your outfit. We also have a wide variety of other leather brogues that will suit whatever style you’re looking for, all Goodyear Welted for the best quality in manufacturing. As well as brogues we have Melbury in dark brown – a classic Derby shoe for the more formal suit wearer.
