RacingBetter News
	Wednesday 25th February 2026

How Fashion Influences Cheltenham Festival

The Cheltenham Festival is one of the highlights of the British social and sporting calendar, celebrated not just for its thrilling jump racing but also for the style on display. Each March, crowds gather in Gloucestershire wearing outfits that mix traditional country heritage with modern fashion. There may not be a strict dress code; however, attendees tend to take it upon themselves to dress smartly, which expresses the prestige of the sporting event as well as their personalities. Whether it be classic tweed jackets or even the eye-catching headpieces, the Cheltenham Festival has become more of a creative showcase of elegance and personality, which draws the attention of people from across the country. 

In recent years, wider interest in Festival traditions - from fashion conversations to where people typically look for Cheltenham free bets information online - has also highlighted how culturally significant the week has become.

A Tradition of Elegance

For decades, Cheltenham Festival fashion has echoed classic British elegance with a modern twist. Unlike other horse racing events such as Royal Ascot, Cheltenham doesn’t provide a dress code; however, the attendees still choose to adopt a smart attire that is consistent amongst visitors, referring to the tradition of the event. Fabrics such as tweed are massively popular for both the practical side of keeping guests warm, as well as providing a stylish countryside aesthetic that is commonly found at the Festival. Racegoers often layer up with tailored coats and country‑inspired pieces, striking a balance between practicality and style that feels quintessentially British.

Iconic Hats

Few things at Cheltenham make a fashion statement quite like a carefully chosen hat. From soft wool felt pieces to more structured fascinators, headwear has always been a highlight for many racegoers. Over the years, millinery has grown from practical, simple designs into imaginative and expressive creations. At today’s festival, hats are mainly used as a way to show personality and creativity through the use of colours and elegant shapes that modernise some of the classic styles we have seen over the years. Whether it be the iconic fedora or a wide-brimmed design, these headpieces can create memories of an event, more so than the race itself.

Suits and Sharp Tailoring

At Cheltenham, the style choices often combine a country aesthetic with smart tailoring. Men typically choose to wear tweed jackets or three-piece suits with shoes that follow a similar style but prioritise comfort. On the other hand, Women often choose fitted dresses, structured coats or trouser suits that use plenty of colour and follow a practical purpose. Together, these outfits create a simple, elegant look that suits the outdoor setting while still making it clear that the festival is a special occasion.

Fashion Rules vs Personal Flair

Cheltenham’s approach to fashion is relaxed enough to celebrate individual expression, yet there are still expectations that influence what people choose to wear. Organisers encourage guests to dress for the weather and comfort, particularly because the event takes place outdoors and the British spring can be unpredictable. At the same time, certain areas of the racecourse, such as hospitality lounges, see more traditionally smart outfits, with men often in jackets and ladies in polished ensembles. The freedom to mix personal flair with practical attire has become part of the festival’s style appeal.

Accessorising the Festival Style

Accessories play a significant role in completing a Cheltenham outfit, with scarves, gloves and stylish bags often chosen to complement the main garments. Silk scarves and gloves are not mainly a practical investment, but they also serve an aesthetic purpose, something that has become common amongst festival-goers. A sensible footwear choice is also essential as a result of the uneven racecourse terrain, as well as the potential for it to be muddy, highlighting how the attention to detail when it comes to selecting a race day outfit is incredibly important, considering both appearance and practicality.

Celebrity Influence

Celebrities, Royal Family members and influencers are all figures who can have an impact on Cheltenham’s fashion, with outfits that often make it onto social media and in some cases the news. By sharing their clothing choices, it can encourage more people to get involved in festival fashion, especially when considering more sustainable choices that have become more apparent in the modern day. The involvement of celebrities and big names just shows how Cheltenham can become a place where sport, culture and fashion can all come together.

Sustainability and Ethical Choices

As fashion changes, so does the focus on sustainability. At Cheltenham, more people are choosing slow fashion, vintage items, and quality pieces that can be worn again and again instead of outfits meant for just one day. Style Wednesday, which used to be called Ladies Day, has become more than a chance to dress up. It is also a way to highlight thoughtful fashion choices that can celebrate longer-lasting items and help to cut down on waste, while still maintaining style. This is a movement which underlines a cultural shift that has a greater emphasis on being mindful when it comes to fashion, something that clearly resonates with many festival attendees.