Love Island winner Jess Harding has risked falling foul of Royal Ascot's strict dress code with her outfit choice. The racing event's dress code has been in the news since Lizzie Cundy was turned away due to her attire, a decision she has publicly criticized.
Jess Harding's Royal Ascot Outfit
The influencer, who appeared on Season 10 of the dating show and was crowned winner alongside Sammy Root, took to Instagram to give fans a glimpse of her look ahead of the races. In the photos, the 25-year-old looks stunning in a plunging pale yellow, off-the-shoulder dress. She paired the outfit with white lace gloves, pointed heels, a small bag, and a matching pale yellow hat.
"It's a butter yellow ascot day," Jess captioned her post.
Royal Ascot Dress Code Rules
While her dress was undeniably glamorous, the outfit risked violating the highly specific and notoriously strict enclosures at Royal Ascot. The event is known for having one of the strictest dress codes in British racing, with specific rules for different enclosures.
The most exclusive area, the Royal Enclosure, enforces a highly traditional and formal dress code. Ladies must wear a hat or headpiece with a solid base of at least 10cm (4 inches). Dresses and skirts must be modest, just above the knee or longer. Straps must be at least 2.5cm (1 inch) wide, with strapless, halter-neck, and off-the-shoulder styles banned. Trouser suits and jumpsuits are allowed but must be full-length, and midriffs must be covered. Gentlemen must wear black, grey, or navy morning dress, including a waistcoat and necktie, paired with a black or grey top hat, and black dress shoes with socks covering the ankle.
Other enclosures have different rules. In the Queen Anne Enclosure, ladies must wear hats, headpieces, or fascinators at all times. Strapless and off-the-shoulder tops or dresses are not permitted, and midriffs must be covered. Trouser suits and jumpsuits must fall below the knee. Gentlemen need a full-length suit with a collared shirt and tie, paired with smart shoes.
The Village Enclosure and Windsor Enclosure have more relaxed rules. In the Village Enclosure, men need jackets, full-length trousers, collared shirts, and a tie, while ladies must wear a hat, headpiece, or fascinator, with similar modest guidelines. The Windsor Enclosure has no strict formal dress code, but smart attire is encouraged; sportswear, ripped jeans, and fancy dress are not allowed. It is not clear which enclosure Jess was in.
Lizzie Cundy's Dress Code Controversy
Jess's risky outfit choice came after Lizzie Cundy was turned away from Royal Ascot due to her attire. The 58-year-old star wore a stunning cream midi dress with various cut-outs. She has since apologized to those who were offended by her gown. She paired the outfit with a Saint Laurent clutch, a large white feather fascinator, and matching shoes. "Yes, I did get a rap on the knuckles but actually the dress was way more conservative than things I've worn in the past," she told the Mail. "It had a polo neck. However, if I have offended anyone then I do apologise."
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