The Royal Ascot, one of England’s most glamorous racing festivals, is taking place from June 16 through June 20 this year. Indeed, the famed Royal Ascot boasts a history dating back more than 100 years. During that time, while many were focused on the horse races, others were just as enthusiastically observing the fashion choices at an annual highlight that never disappoints.
Ascot Racecourse in Ascot, Berkshire, was founded by Queen Anne in 1711. By 1813, Ascot held such prominence that Parliament passed an act to ensure that it remain a public racecourse. Despite this, until 1945 the only racing that could take place there was the four-day Royal Meeting. On the topic of the Royal Meeting, Ascot's summer race meeting officially became a Royal week in 1911, a tradition that continues to this day, with the British royal family attending the racing event every year.
Today, around 300,000 people attend Royal Ascot over five days, making it one of the highlights of the British summer social calendar. Undoubtedly, the Royal Ascot is where sport and pedigree (of the human and horse variety) meet. But we must not overlook the impact it has had on fashion. Where have you ever seen more unique headgear? You simply haven’t!
Click through the following gallery for vintage images of Royal Ascot throughout its history.