The Cross-Section Between Horse Racing and Fashion

When it comes to fashion, the shows in London, New York, Paris, and Milan are the standard way to see what is considered ‘in’. However, given its versatile nature, an unlikely type of event and activity has allowed fashion to thrive further: horse racing.

Horse racing has always been a hugely popular pastime for many. It’s become a staple of British culture. It is a sporting discipline that has caught the eyes and hearts of many around the UK, and has continued to thrive in other parts of the world. One reason that has helped its interest grow is through sports betting.

It is now possible to place a number of different wagers on the sport, with many coming in various guises. Real betting and virtual betting markets now exist, which have enhanced the popularity of the sport. Both options essentially provide unrestricted access, as bets can almost be placed whenever is convenient for the punter.

With the advancements of the internet and other technologies, keeping up with the latest real and virtual horse racing results has never been easier. Punters can quickly look them up or use them to help them make more informed decisions the next time they bet on the events that take place.

Horse Racing and Fashion: Why has the latter become significant?

However, due to its popularity and cultural appeal, the sport has evolved and entered new territories. Horse racing has become a show of sorts for fashionistas worldwide.

The biggest festivals will have specific days, such as ‘Ladies Day’, which will see women be dressed from top to toe in some of the biggest and best show-stopping garments. It’s not uncommon to see women kit themselves out in flamboyant hats that match visually appealing dresses or blouses. They will accompany these with a pair of fashionable heels or boots, without forgetting the accessories that can make their outfit pop! It’s no different for men, either. They can dress up in more formal wear at the meets they attend, with suits and ties often being the main choice for most. 

While it has become a chance to get dressed up and wear something different from normal attire, it’s also required. Some events and Festivals have a dress code that needs to be adhered to. At the same time, changes have been made to policies, including abandoning the previous dress code, as they try to make racing more accessible to everyone.

Has horse racing influenced fashion trends?

Given how ingrained the sport is in British culture, it’s unsurprising that it has had an impact on fashion itself.

It's possible to suggest that it has had the same impact as betting has had. Many may associate fashion with horse racing as closely as they would relate the ability to bet on the sport. Of course, it's not quite the same, as you don't need to get dressed up when engaging in virtual horse racing betting or on the actual horses. Nonetheless, you can see why so many look to try and enhance any experience that can be potentially enjoyed by putting on apparel that the sport has influenced.

Regarding fashion, various influences from the sport within garments have been created. Tweed is a type of fabric/material that has become synonymous with the horse racing scene and has been enjoyed by many. Fashion labels have looked to implement this within collections they have designed.

Final Words

It’s very easy to see the connection between horse racing and fashion in today’s society and identify a cross-section between the two everywhere you look. Despite the relaxed dress code in place, it’s unlikely to deter those who attend the biggest meets from taking the chance to make a visual statement with their outfits.