Royal Ascot, the epitome of British elegance and tradition, is an event that seamlessly blends high fashion with historic horse racing and the Princess of Wales has always shown impeccable fashion choices at the event that set trends around the world.
This year, the event begins the week of June 18, 2024, and in the past Princess Kate has often opted for classic silhouettes, delicate fabrics, and intricate details that pay homage to the event’s history. While Kate recovers from her cancer treatment, it is thought other members of the Royal Family are likely to be present at the event instead.
Style expert, Danielle Rogers-Clark of Give Good Dress has exclusively shared with express.co.uk readers, fashion inspiration tips inspired by Princess Kate for those attending Royal Ascot 2024.
In 2023, Princess Kate arrived at the racecourse in a red maxi dress by designer Alexander McQueen. The all-red V-neck maxi dress had long cuffed sleeves, an inset waistband and shoulder pads. The Princess of Wales paired her eye-catching ensemble with a vintage Hermès clutch (Rio in rouge leather), red Lorenzo 105 styled heels by Jennifer Chamandi, and a red wide-brimmed hat by esteemed milliner Philip Treacy.
In the same year, the Princess of Wales wore a stunning white and black polka dot dress by London-based designer, Alessandra Rich, which featured a very high neck with a bow at the top.
Princess Kate also paired the black and white dress with a Sally-Ann Provan hat and accessorised the look with South-Sea pearl earrings that once belonged to Princess Diana.
Style guru Danielle explains Kate’s red outfit worn in 2023 “represented the innate confidence” she has as the Princess of Wales.
For 2024, Danielle shares how fans can re-create her stunning look: “Recreate this fiery powerful outfit with the Phase Eight Marilyn belted dress, team with the Lipsy black suede heels, styled with the red Hobbs, aptly name Catherine wristlet clutch.”
She added: “Finish the outfit by pairing with the beautiful gold twisted fan gemstone earrings from Oliver Bonas and add the Phase Eight bow oval fascinator for the ultimate Royal Ascot power dressing.”
The Phase Eight Marilyn Textured Midi dress is available for £149 in John Lewis at a fraction of the price of Kate’s designer red look. The clutch bag is selling for £69 from high-street brand Hobbs, and the Lipsy shoes are priced at £45 from the brand, Next.
To complete the look, the glistening gem stud earrings are available from Oliver Bonas for £18, and the oval bow fascinator for £69 from Phase Eight.
Sharing advice on how to capture Kate’s iconic 2022 polka dot ensemble, Danielle explained: “The beautiful white and navy polka Lucilla belted dress from Hobbs is the epitome of Ladies Day chic, pair with the navy suede heeled court shoes from Lipsy for a touch of glamour.
“Elevate the outfit by adding the moon and star pearl drop earrings, the navy fascinator enhances this elegant style and finish the look by styling with the Navy envelope clutch for a super stylish outfit that exudes quiet luxury.”
The polka dot dress is available in petite and regular sizes at Hobbs costing £189 and comes with a tie waist. The navy fascinator costs £69 from Phase Eight and Lipsy navy court shoes are priced at £45 from Next. The navy clutch bag is £35 from Monsoon and is a chic accessory for your Ascot-inspired look and adding the finishing touches to the outfit, opt for gold pearl drop earrings from Oliver Bonas at £55.
Over the years, designers and high-street brands alike take inspiration from Princess Kate Ascot outfits, creating collections that reflect her timeless elegance and appeal to a broad audience. Princess Kate’s style at Royal Ascot has not only respected the event’s traditions but has usually set contemporary trends for royal fashion fans.