What you should be wearing to Glorious Goodwood
Here's a head start on the dashing dress code, to ensure you hit your sartorial stride
Words: Gentleman's Journal
With five days of thrilling action set against the magnificent backdrop of the rolling Sussex countryside, The Qatar Goodwood Festival – popularly known as ‘Glorious Goodwood’ – is one of the highlights of the flat-racing season.
But, being one of the largest race meetings in the world, and quite the spectacle, the style standards are set higher than any other event on the calendar. Elegant fashion is a must, and we’re on hand to make sure you have a head start on the dress code, and hit your sartorial stride straight out of the gate.
The Richmond Enclosure and Gordon & Lennox Enclosures indeed have different dress codes, but they should all be approached with the intention to impress. As such, even though ties and jackets are only obligatory in the Richmond Enclosure, and there isn’t even a formal dress code in the Lennox, but your best foot forward and you’ll ensure your day goes off with a bang.
Where dress codes are enforced, they may call for a jacket and tie, but this doesn’t mean you have to stick to the classic look. Try opting for a statement jacket to stand out from the crowd, or perhaps go for something double-breasted for a change – but always ensure that you lay a solid style foundation with a well-made and tailored shirt.
The two-two shoe is an excellent way to keep things formal, whilst injecting a little fun and frippery into your outfit. A rakish addition to your wardrobe, the vintage feel of a two-tone pair of brogues will herald back to the golden age of racing; the 1920s.
It perhaps seems a little strange to call socks key, as they will remain hidden for most of the day. But, the moment you sit down, socks will show and either make your outfit pop or flop. Aim for the the former, and invest in either a pair of classically-coloured, impeccably well-made socks, or something a little more fun.
Express your personality with your tie. No colour or design, or indeed texture, is specified in the dress code, so use your head to adorn your neck, and pick a necktie that expresses who you are, what your style is, and just how confident you are that you’ll be heading home with pockets full of winnings. This could mean something of the shiniest silk, boldly-striped, or a subtly-textured knitted tie for the humble gambler. It’s up to you.
Your tie and socks are in the bag, but men’s accessorising doesn’t end there. Glorious Goodwood, in all its alliterative glory, is about bombastic, bold dressing, so don’t forget your tie pin and pocket square to give the finishing touches to your look.
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