Could this be the year that we see a new trend, a vision of elegance, sophistication, confident and demure? Or will our popular dailies feature Hen Parties and unguarded TV personalities slightly at odds with restrictive clothing and heels sinking into the grass? Unfortunately I don’t think we’ll ever see a scene like “My Fair Lady” ever again – more’s the pity. “Sigh’s”
As with previous years I have a feeling on Friday 7th April 2017 we will see the worlds paparazzi descend on Aintree to catch a glimpse of those slightly tipsy moments being given their 2 minutes of fame…
What is the dress code for the Grand National weekend? The Jockey Club at Aintree stipulate that there is no “official dress code” however, smart is preferable, hats are optional, although neither sports clothes nor fancy dress are allowed.
As a onetime women’s wear Creative Director, I provide my key trends and insights into Liverpool’s annual race-going party weekend. I am not a judge, however the Ladies Day Style Award (£43,000 of prizes to the winner) for the best dressed begs me to offer an opinion!
The Road to Grand National 2017 Begins Here:
1. HAIR – get your colour on! Pick your favourite jockey, check his silks and get a strand of a “clip-in hair extension” to match. Now dig out those huge rollers and get some extended curls.
2. OUTFIT – I think we’ll see a lot of Playsuits and Jumpsuits; girls it’s time to shine, be bold. Naturally, if you’re confident, you’ll go for the plunging neckline and shorts – STOP – do one or the other, not both. The colours to go for, fuchsia, tropical green and yellow – for all of these your skin needs colour.
3. TAN – Obviously
4. SHOES – ankle boots and heavy heel or wide strappy sandals with a heavy heel (so says VOGUE) – if you must go for a towering stiletto lets see some gloss (patent), oh and red soles are so last year.
5. COAT – are you mad, this is Race day at Aintree!
6. PURSE / BAG – This is not an evening, this is a long day and you’ll need more than your lippy and phone; trending at the moment is the “nu blvck” Grab Bag – only available in baby pink, navy and grey… they’re obviously running out, you may need to act quick to get one of these.
7. HAT: If you’re having a ‘mare with your hair I would definitely go for the “alice-band” hat, Yvette Jelfs makes brilliant ones, definitely worth giving her a call. It just saves worrying about pinning and losing kirby-grips.
8. PLACING A BET: This is an area I have little expertise, however you should know that #FabulousFriday (Ladies Day) is day two of the three day Festival, the actual Grand National takes place the following day. Friday the first race starts at 1.40pm and there are seven races. If you want to avoid the queues (and save your shoes) I’d definitely bet online, at least then you get involved in the excitement without the hassle.
#FabulousFriday has the huge £43,000 prize for the Ladies Day Style Award, will we see you on our screens that day? If you’re going, come and say hello!