Royal Ascot kicks off this week, but attendees may be unaware that a common item of clothing is strictly forbidden. Before heading to the prestigious horse racing event, it is essential to brush up on the dress code rules.
Trainers Banned at Royal Ascot
According to a travel creator known as Travel Viva on TikTok, trainers, sneakers, and sports footwear are prohibited in all enclosures. Making a simple fashion mistake could lead to refused entry. The dress code varies by enclosure, with the Royal Enclosure and Queen Anne Enclosure requiring highly formalwear such as morning dress or smart suits, along with traditional closed-toe dress shoes. Even in the more relaxed Village and Windsor Enclosure, smart daywear is mandatory, and trainers, denim, and shorts are explicitly banned.
Additional Prohibited Items
The official Royal Ascot website states: "Styling your summer occasionwear is an integral part of the Royal Ascot tradition, woven into the very essence of the event." It emphasizes that each enclosure upholds its own distinguished dress code and encourages guests to familiarize themselves with the guidelines. The website also lists other items not permitted within any dress code, including fancy dress, novelty patterns and fabrics (such as slogans, phrases, promotional messaging, brand logos, or cartoon imagery), denim, leggings, and shorts.
Event Details
Royal Ascot 2026 will run for five consecutive days from Tuesday, June 16 to Saturday, June 20 at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, UK. The event attracts over 250,000 spectators across its five-day festival, making it one of the largest and most heavily attended sporting events in the UK.
