GENTS - What to wear at Cheltenham Festival

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So you've got your tickets for the Cheltenham Festival; you've probably been eyeing up the horses over the past month, and you might have even put a few cheeky bets on already. The one thing you may not have thought about though is what to wear... And yes chaps, it’s not just about the ladies anymore.

 

Unlike other racing events such as Ascot, Cheltenham doesn't actually have an official dress code, though that's not to mean that you shouldn't still use it as an excuse to wear your finest. Fancy dress is even permitted (in the Tattersalls and Best Mate enclosures), but although you might see gatherings of guys in jockey outfits, dressed as horses, or adorning comedy Guinness hats on their heads, we think it's a big fat no-no. You'll only attract unwanted attention and nobody likes an idiot in a onesie.

 

Probably the most important thing you need to consider is the weather; we all know how unpredictable it can be. In 2014 we had glorious sunshine for the majority of the week, but being in the middle of March, it's hardly likely we'll experience that again this year. Even if we did, there’d still be a chilly springtime breeze in the air, so you need to wrap up warm either way.

8843427856?profile=original8843428657?profile=originalThe stereotypical Cotswold Gent can be spotted in his tweed jacket and red corduroy trousers, possibly quaffing some wine. Whilst the cords are quite an acquired taste, and should probably be left at home, tweed is definitely a thing. You can keep it traditional with shades of green and brown, but seeing as tweed is a coveted fashion item now, there are plenty of alternative colours and prints around; a stylish grey or navy blue perhaps? And for an extra layer, wax Barbour-styled jackets are a wise choice, or get yourself a thick woollen overcoat; they ooze class.

8843428696?profile=originalYou'll want to pair your jacket with a shirt and tie combination, of which the possibilities are endless. Keep it simple and focus on the accents - textures, flashes of colour, subtle patterns - don’t go for anything garish. You can even get away with a bow tie or cravat; both seem to be making a comeback as racing attire. Top that off with a scarf and Bob's your uncle (or your worth).

Hats are commonplace at the festival, and let’s face it; there aren’t many occasions where you can wear one for the day. Take the opportunity and run with it. Flat caps are fine, but trilbies are the height of sophistication; just wear it with confidence.

 

All that's left now is your shoes, and considering you’ll be on your feet all day, they need to be comfortable ones. Your well loved loafers may be the comfiest you own, but if they’ve seen better days, it’s time to treat your feet! A bloody good brogue, with all that intricate detailing, would complete your outfit, though a classic pair of Chelsea boots would be an impeccable choice too.

 

And on the day, if the weather’s looking dismal, take a brolly just in case and pray that the thunder you hear is from the horse’s hooves, not the sky.

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