Dresses for the races

It’s that time of year again: early summer heralds the race season, and what better opportunity to showcase the very best of this summer’s trends? Whether it’s Cheltenham, Ascot, or Goodwood, race days have become the place to make bold fashion statements, and ladies’ days frequently attract the attention of the British media, celebrities and style commentators.

As with any red carpet event, there are some inevitable bloopers, but on the whole a glamorous and polished affair. Maxi, mini and midi lengths all lend to a sophisticated look and the high street has on offer some fantastic dresses which can be considered investment pieces: highly versatile designs incorporating a wide variety of fabrics and finishes can be combined with an array of accessories to create a capsule wardrobe perfect for any special occasion.

Summer 2015 sees shades of blue paired with metallics or white, pops of bright colour – yellow is one of the most wearable colourways and seen across many collections – pure white, monochrome and ever-faithful, flattering nude/natural palettes guarantee something for everyone.

Brights

Painterly splash floral print dress, £160, Karen Millen

Raffy ruffle detail dress, £179, Reiss

Jacquard dress with high neck, £75, ASOS

Blue

Shaylee dress, £89, Monsoon

Off shoulder heavy lace midi prom dress, £260, Self Portrait at ASOS

Fish scales dress, £60, Principles by Ben de Lisi at Debenhams

White hot

Kiera layer dress, £225, LK Bennett

White sequin embellished pleated maxi dress, £85, River Island

Guipure stars dress, £59.99, Zara

Nude/natural

Corwin multi-tie dress, £89, Coast

Scallop lace midi dress, £45, ASOS

Sleeveless dress, £29.99, H&M

Monochrome

Galaxy maxi dress in star print, £72, Sister Jane at ASOS

Stripe bardot dress, £65, Michelle Keegan for Lipsy

Printed dress, £45.99, Zara

Emma Pugh
Photo: Dunphasizer