Royal Ascot and Daniel Fletcher have unveiled their dressing guide for 2026 with The Royal Ascot Handbook: The Art of Dressing Well. The style guide is filled with race day dressing inspiration, featuring Erin O’Connor in looks from Edeline Lee, Rebecca Vallance, and Christian Louboutin.
For the first time, they have launched the Royal Ascot Colour of the Year, which has been selected as Bright Tomato. Ascot attendees are encouraged to wear this vibrant red shade on Ladies Day (18th June), either as a full statement look or as an accent.
If you are heading to Ascot next week and need help with what to wear, we have rounded up five of the best high street 'tomato red' dresses to ensure you are on theme and look your very best.
Nobody's Child Red Ruched Naomi Midi Dress
Priced at £120, this Nobody's Child midi has been praised by shoppers for being the 'perfect length – long enough to be elegant and formal without tripping over', making it an ideal choice for impressing on Ladies Day. Finish the look with a contrasting fascinator to really make a statement.
Principles Structured Fit And Flare Midi Dress
Priced at £65, this structured fit and flare midi from Principles at Debenhams has hidden pockets, making it as practical as it is stylish. Team with matching tomato red accessories for a monochromatic moment or keep it simple with gold or neutral finishing touches.
Love & Roses Red Lace Angel Sleeve Midi Dress
Priced at £115, the flattering angel sleeves and cutout back add a gorgeous finishing touch to this lace dress from Love & Roses, making it the perfect choice for race days or even summer weddings.
Next Red Short Sleeve Midi Cinched Hip Shirt Dress
Priced at £56, this Next shirt dress is a great option if you prefer keeping your upper arms covered. The belt detail helps cinch in the waist for a figure-flattering silhouette, and the classic shirt details add a formal, polished touch to the outfit.
Phase Eight Ansley Strappy Maxi Dress
Currently priced at £119, this strappy maxi from Phase Eight meets Ascot's requirements. At Ascot, the rules state that straps on dresses must be minimum 1 inch wide to enter the Queen Anne and Village Enclosures, with strapless, off-the-shoulder, one-shoulder, and halter-necklines being strictly prohibited across most enclosures. While the Windsor Enclosure has no formal dress code, it is best to follow suit of the other enclosures.
