The Grand National festival, which commences today at Aintree racecourse near Liverpool, is globally celebrated as the pinnacle of steeplechase horse racing. However, in recent years, the three-day event has evolved into a major fashion spectacle, drawing as much attention for its glamorous attire as for the thrilling races on the track.
A Parade of Style and Missteps
Each year, revellers dress to the nines, parading down the course in ostentatious hats, vibrant dresses, and thigh-skimming outfits. The event regularly attracts a host of celebrities, including British actress Helen Flanagan, WAG Coleen Rooney, and TV personality Georgia Toffolo, who add to the glitz and glamour. Yet, despite their fame and resources, some stars have missed the mark with their race day style, resulting in fashion faux pas that have sparked commentary and critique.
Notable Fashion Blunders Through the Years
In 2018, Love Island's Gabby Allen wore an off-the-shoulder cream dress adorned with ruffles. While the frock itself was stylish, her accessories created a stark contrast: she paired it with barely-there black heels and a matching hat featuring a bright, in-your-face orange bow, which many deemed a misstep.
That same year, Helen Skelton opted for eye-catching colours, donning a vibrant pink suit teamed with a lace black top. Similarly, in 2015, Coleen Rooney, a Liverpool native and regular at the races, commanded attention in a very bright orange lace mini dress with cape detailing, a bold choice that divided opinions.
Daring Ensembles and Revealing Outfits
It's not just harsh, vibrant shades that have failed to impress; other celebrities have relied on daring and revealing ensembles. In 2024, internet personality Chanelle McCleary left little to the imagination in a plunging black halterneck dress, putting on a very busty display. The year prior, Hollyoaks actress Jorgie Porter showcased a very leggy look in a sheer ruffled mini dress, complemented by an olive jacket with waterfall sleeves and white pointed heels.
In 2023, Sarah Jayne Dunn, who kickstarted an OnlyFans career after leaving Hollyoaks, flaunted her physique in a dramatic pink frilled dress with an enormous bow embellishment for Ladies Day at Aintree. She accessorised with black platform heels and a matching clutch bag, turning heads with her eye-catching outfit.
Other Memorable Missteps
Additional fashion faux pas include Michelle Heaton's sailor-inspired jacket in 2016, Tanya Bardsley's all-pink ensemble in 2022, Claire Sweeney's unusual green dress and matching hat in 2022, Charlotte Dawson's overly ruffled jumpsuit in 2022, and Hannah Elizabeth's plunging suit at the 2024 festival. In 2023, actress Ellie Leach wore a look seemingly more suitable for a sunny beach holiday than the races, further highlighting the varied and sometimes questionable style choices.
The Racing Action Amidst the Fashion
Amidst the fashion frenzy, the racing remains the core attraction. Ahead of the big race on Saturday, I Am Maximus leads the maximum field of 34 declared runners, attempting to emulate Red Rum's historic feat. No horse since Ginger McCain's Aintree legend has won the world's most famous steeplechase, lost the title, and then regained it. Red Rum's victories in 1973, 1974, and 1977 set a high bar, with Willie Mullins' I Am Maximus aiming to be the first dual winner since Tiger Roll.
There were no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, although Jimmy Mangan's Spillane's Tower is also declared to run in Thursday's Racing Welfare Bowl Chase. If that occurs, Pied Piper, the first of six reserves, would join as number 34, adding to the competitive field. The deadline for reserves to make the final field in case of a non-runner is 1pm on Friday, ensuring an exciting build-up to the main event.
