As the Dubai World Cup approaches, fashion enthusiasts are preparing to compete not just for the win at the track but for the coveted Style Stakes. The event is a celebration of both couture and creativity, blending tradition with modern trends in racewear.
The history of racewear reflects the societal norms and etiquette of the upper class. Men traditionally wore morning suits—tailcoats, waistcoats, striped trousers, and top hats—symbols of high status required for entry into select areas of prestigious racecourses. Women, on the other hand, adhered to a more varied yet strict dress code, featuring long dresses with modest cuts, mandatory hats, and elegant accessories. The Royal Enclosure at Royal Ascot, for example, enforced specific guidelines, such as dress straps of a certain width and hemlines that fell just above the knee or longer.
However, as fashion evolves, the rigid rules of race day attire have softened. Today, there is a noticeable shift toward embracing individuality. Indian stylist and costume designer Anaita Shroff Adajania points out that race-day fashion now celebrates personal expression. While men still don their morning suits in specific areas, there’s more freedom in experimenting with tie colors, waistcoats, and even the tailoring of the tailcoat. For women, racewear is all about balancing elegance and high fashion, with varying styles of fascinators and chic millinery pieces replacing more traditional hat choices. 
As the 20th century progressed, fashion houses began to use race days as platforms to showcase their latest designs. Brands like Chanel, Christian Dior, and Alexander McQueen have redefined race day attire with dresses featuring bold prints and experimental fabrics. Couture, with its attention to detail and luxury, quickly became a favorite among racegoers, and high-fashion houses continue to influence the trends seen today at events like the Dubai World Cup.
Millinery, or the art of hat-making, plays a central role in race-day fashion. Hats are no longer just accessories; they are statements in their own right. Renowned milliners like Philip Treacy and Stephen Jones have built a reputation for creating extraordinary headpieces that can steal the spotlight. At prestigious events like the Kentucky Derby, the Royal Ascot, and the Dubai World Cup, hats range from the elegant and understated to the avant-garde, offering attendees a chance to express their style and creativity.
Luxury brands have also made their mark on race day fashion. Major sponsors like Longines, Rolex, and Louis Vuitton promote their products and shape how racewear is perceived. These collaborations align luxury brands with the prestige of the sport, appealing to affluent racegoers whose tastes often align with high-end fashion.
So, what can attendees expect at the Dubai World Cup 2025? Style experts recommend a colorful and cohesive look for a standout outfit. A bold color choice, such as pastel pink or blue, combined with textured fabrics and a well-curated accessory collection, is key. Dresses should be knee-length or longer, with a cinched waist and elegant draping. The right hat is also crucial, ensuring it complements the entire look. Keeping these guidelines in mind will help ensure a fashion-forward presence at the event, leaving a lasting impression on the Style Stakes panel.
