Are You Off to the Races This Summer?

If there’s one thing that is synonymous with the Irish summer (aside from rain and artic conditions, that is) it’s the Galway Races.

Yes ladies, that time of year is almost upon us yet again and what could be better than an entire week of drinking, having a flutter and some hard-core riding (of horses, naturally).

So will you be toddling off to the races on July 30th? If so, we imagine you’re currently experiencing the style dilemma that women across the nation have on an annual basis. Namely, what on earth should you wear to the races?

Here is our handy guide to ensure you fit in with the horsey-crowd, no matter the dress code.

What to wear…

If you really don’t buy into the whole race-day-fashion hype: You don’t care about winning the best dressed lady competition and you’re much more concerned with enjoying the atmosphere and having the craic with your friends. You also want to stay comfy, warm and dry.

Does this sound like you? Then our advice is to bedeck yourself in a comfy pair of skinny jeans (a dark denim will look smart) a simple white t-shirt and a well-cut blazer. Pair all of this with a pair of simple flats (or a kitten heel, if you feel up to it) and a nice camel-coloured mac.

It’s casual but also smart enough to discourage any major scowls from the ladies attired in designer clothes and impractical headwear.

If you want to get into the swing of things: You want to dress up a little bit, but don’t want to look completely overdone and ridiculous.

Dressing up for the races can be a fun experience and if you want to get into the swing of things without going over the top, then here’s how to strike the perfect sartorial balance.

When shopping for the event keep the following in mind: you want to look nice, but you don’t want to look like you’re done up for a wedding.

Invest in a well-fitting, simple shift dress. Block colour never goes out of style at the races so go for a nice blue or a deep pink. Try to pick something that you’ll wear again. Add a nice blazer and a good shoe/handbag combo that compliments your dress.

You’ll look put together, but not in an overpowering way.

If you want to win the title of ‘Best Dressed Lady’: You want to walk away with the title and the generous cash prize that comes with it.

If you’re hoping to compete in the Best Dressed Lady competition then you need to be at your fashion best. Fact. You’ll be up against some serious competition here.

There are a two things that you should be aware of: judges generally don’t like visible tattoos or body piercings and it’s called “Best Dressed LADY” for a reason – so you might want to stay away from daring hemlines and plunging necklines.

What can you wear? Well a decent hat/fascinator is obligatory, so it’s worth investing in something that will give your outfit an air of individuality. As for the dress itself, go for something that you can customise with accessories. For example, a plain dress that can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the accessories you add.

Colour is a big thing and most women stick to the hues that are on trend. This year your best bet is to go for pastels, subtle neons and if you’re daring, a non-fussy print.

Unfortunately, heels are a must. If you can’t handle a majorly high heel then get yourself a pair of nude shoes with a medium-height heel. This will immediately make your legs look longer, and make you appear taller.

The Galway Races will be taking place this year from Monday, July 30th to Sunday, August 5th. For more information visit: www.galwayraces.com