When Royal Ascot rolls around each year, the spectacle that ensues is one that can only be described as pure heaven for the eyeballs.
On each of the five key race days, we’re subjected to a plethora of dreamy gowns donned by Britain’s elite as they take to the greens of Ascot for the classy affair.
This year has been no different – case in point being Kate Middleton’s surprise appearance in an Elie Saab design, a fashion moment that will be fondly etched in our memories for a while to come.
So why is Ascot always such a spectacle of perfection? The answer lies in the strict dress code, which must be followed by all attendees and ensures each and every look is royally on-point.
But in saying that, this isn’t always the case…
Zara Tindall, who has been a regular guest at the event for many years, wore a rather, er, risky ensemble if you will, to Day Three.
The blonde mum-of-two looked stunning in a teal dress that featured beautiful ruffled detailing and a high neckline.
Pairing the bright design with a hat in a matching hue and nude heels, the royal looked every bit as classy (if not more so) than her high-brow affiliates in attendance.
But there was a small detail about her dress that might have sent tongues wagging…
Notice anything, er, unexpected about this seemingly appropriate dress on Zara?
(Getty)Zara’s beautiful teal dress actually featured a hemline that fell above the knee – a style that might be considered a little too short in Ascot’s strict dress code.
But in saying that, looking closely at the rule book, it’s important to note that it does state that dresses must be a “modest length” – so technically, it’s all down to opinion when it comes to whether you think she broke said rule or not.
Did she or didn’t she? Zara certainly tested the dress code limits at Royal Ascot!
(Getty)There are plenty of other rules and regulations around dress code at the prestigious event as well.
According to the rule book, dress straps must be a least 2.5cm thick, while a headpiece needs to have a solid base of 10cm or more in diameter – no facilitators allowed!
For men, socks and black shoes are compulsory, as well as a waistcoat complete with a tie. Black or grey top hats are also given the thumbs up.
Sophie of Wessex couldn’t have looked more chic in this blue pantsuit at Ascot!
(Getty)And while the rules certainly sound quite strict, that’s not to say there isn’t a little wriggle room for change. In fact, a few years ago the dress code was amended to allow women to wear jumpsuits to the event.
And lo and behold, our favourite understated fashion hero Sophie of Wessex, pictured above, embraced the change in all its glory, wearing a stunning jumpsuit by favoured royal designer Emilia Wickstead, who is originally from New Zealand.
Suffice to say we’ll continue to be enchanted by the stunning fashion moments from the Ascot green – long may they last!
WATCH: Queen Elizabeth leads the royal procession at Ascot. See the royals’ stunning outfits!
