Northern racing fans proved they’re more than a match for their southern counterparts at Chester Ladies day today.
Organisers have described the event as the ‘pinnacle of Chester’s social calendar’, and the women in attendance certainly got the memo, with statement hats, vertiginous heels and designer handbags all out in force.
While there are strict dress codes in place around more formal racing events, such as Ladies Day at Royal Ascot, hats are not mandatory at Chester.
But that didn’t stop these ladies pulling out all the stops with their headpieces, with some of the more dramatic feather-topped creations threatening to steal attention away from the action on the track.
And they’re off! Stunning racegoers showcased their style prowess as they attended Ladies Day at Chester Racecourse
Style queens: Red proved to be a popular colour among the women at today’s races who obviously had their finger on the fashion pulse
Rule breakers! While the dress code calls for a ‘modest’ hemline may daring fashionistas hitched up their skirts to a shorter style
Time for a tipple! Worn out racegoers rested their feet and enjoyed a pint on the steps of the racecourse as the day went on
Improvising! With wine glasses in short supply these ladies enjoyed their Rosé from plastic pint glasses
Women stepped out in myriad millinery creations, from the humble fascinator to hats with showstopping wide brims.
This year saw organisers implement a loose style guide for both the male and female attendees at the Boodles May Festival.
The fashion advice for men and women on how to dress appropriately for one of the biggest equestrian events of the year.
Famously less strict than its high-fashion counterparts like Royal Ascot, women competing for the title of Best Dressed at Chester are not required to wear a hat and are permitted to bare their shoulders.
Strike a pose: A group of fashionable friends were more than happy to stop for photos after painstakingly piecing their outfits together
Taking a break! A stylish troupe of women pause for a glass of champagne in the midday heat after watching a race
Winning in the style stakes! Racegoers put their best fashion foot forward as they arrived at Chester Racecourse for Ladies Day on Thursday
Strutting her stuff: This woman had perfected her stance for posing although appeared to be having a little trouble with her shoe size
Daring dresses! Dressed to the nines style savvy punters put on a glamorous display in bold prints and thigh skimming dresses
Topping it off! Hats were the order of the day with this elegant racegoer stealing the show in a bright red fascinator with a burst of feather plumes and an oversize bow
Hats off to them! These elegant women had perfectly coordinated their head gear with their flattering ensembles
Ahead of the trend: While women are not required to wear a hat on the day many choose to with outlandish headgear spotted across the board
Lady in red: This sophisticated lady chose to stick to one colourway with silver accessories adding an elegant touch
Party time! After enjoying a class of champagne these ladies were ready to let loose on the racetrack on Thursday
However, female racegoers are also advised to opt for ‘modest’ hemlines – just above the knee or longer – and encouraged to experiment with ‘power dressing’ and smart trouser suits.
For cooler days, the ladies of Chester can pair their ensemble with a small tailored jacket or pashmina to protect against the elements.
The dress code is stricter in the Winning Post Enclosure and County Long Room, while in the Dee Stand & Open Course they can even wear jeans and flip-flops.
Power house: The style guide encourages women to explore ‘power dressing’ by experimenting with suits and tailoring
Colourful queens! One bright-haired racegoers made sure her outfit included all the colours of the rainbow while her friend opted for a chic red and white look
And they’re off! Arrivals could barely contain their excitement as they made their way into the enclosure on Thursday
Boho beauties! Pastels and lace were among the popular choices this afternoon, with one young woman opting to power-dress in a lilac suit
Bending the rules! While attendees are encouraged to dress ‘modestly’ with hemlines just above the knee or lower many chose to ignore the style guide
Three cheers for Chester! This excitable group couldn’t wait for today’s races to kick off
Stunning display: From monochrome dressing to acid brights each woman was sure to showcase their individual style
Floral friends! Two brunettes put on a gorgeous display in botanical themed dresses finishing the look with a pair of chic shades
Meanwhile, men are encouraged to ‘be daring and combine great tailoring with pops of colour to inject personality into your look’.
Each year the historic racecourse plays host to the Boodles May Festival, a three-day annual race meeting which attracts equestrian enthusiasts from all over the country.
The Boodles May Festival runs from Wednesday 9 to Friday 11 May this year, kicking off on Wednesday with City Day with the Lily Agnes Stakes and the Chester Vase.
The event culminates on Friday with the highest profile race, the Chester Cup – which brings in huge crowds and the highest cash prize.
Chester Racecourse have teamed up with designer outlet McArthurGlen Cheshire Oaks to present this season’s Style Guide and bring to life Chester’s dress-code guidelines.
Chic and casual: Stepping away from the frills and lace of her fellow attendees this woman opted for a less formal vest-top
All things bright and beautiful! Two women showcase their love of colour in bright yellow and teal ensembles