The Grand National Festival stands as one of the most significant occasions in the British horse racing calendar for a few reasons. First and foremost, it provides a unique opportunity to witness the world’s finest horses and jockeys competing in some of the sport’s most iconic races.

Races that have stood the test of time

For a better look at the fabled itinerary of this age-old competition, this horse racing gambling site lists all of the races at the festival which include the Aintree Hurdle, Topham Steeple Chase, and of course the Grand National itself. On this occasion, the latest online odds price Corach Rambler as the favourite at 6/1 to win the 175th annual running of the Grand National race. As you can see, this is an event steeped in history as it approaches two full centuries of competition.

The Grand National has centuries of captivating history, as well as a festival that brings together the best-dressed people for a few days each year. Indeed, the Grand National Festival is synonymous with the latest style and fashion and with the ITV cameras rolling throughout the 72 hours of the festival, people often go all out when choosing what to wear.

From all of the team here at @AintreeRaces thank you so much for joining us for our coverage of the Randox Grand National Festival 2022! ?

It’s an honour and a privilege to bring this incredible sport to your screens on free-to-air TV#ITVRacing | #GrandNational pic.twitter.com/ebWJiI6J4d

— ITV Racing (@itvracing) April 9, 2022

Here is the ultimate guide on what to wear to the festival so you don’t look out of place.

The etiquette

The dress code on the opening day of the festival is the most relaxed. However, that’s not to say that you should arrive in an outfit that you would wear to Tescos at 7 am on a Sunday morning to pick up an emergency carton of milk. In other words, it’s still advisable to dress to impress on Thursday at the Grand National Festival.

Ladies Day

Moving onto Friday which is the much-celebrated Ladies’ Day where the dress code is more formal. Although it should be said that there is no dress code in place for the actual day, ladies are simply encouraged to wear stylish and colourful outfits while gentlemen are more often than not found in a suit with a collared shirt and tie.

Hands up who’s entering the Style Awards with @quizclothing on Ladies’ Day? ?

First prize includes a holiday worth £5,000 and a @houseofcavani voucher with an in-store experience ?

Full prize & entry details: https://t.co/CVBxnoQptT pic.twitter.com/CY1eboBqDx

— Aintree Racecourse (@AintreeRaces) March 29, 2023

Grand National Saturday

On Grand National Day, Saturday, it’s noticeably more formal in the Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure which menas that the time has come to dust off your best suit and make a statement if that’s where you’re headed. As for what to wear, you can never go far wrong with a well-tailored suit, crisp shirt, and a tie. Additionally, it’s always a wise practice to opt for classic colours such as navy, grey, or black.

To complete your look, make sure to accessorize with a pocket square and cufflinks to add a touch of elegance to your outfit on Grand National Saturday.

It’s worth pointing out that if you’re attending the Tattersalls or West Tip areas, the dress code is slightly more relaxed. In fact, you are able to get away with smart casual attire in most of the enclosures at Aintree on this day. The overall suggestion is a blazer or sports jacket with trousers or even chinos – as long as they’re paired with a collared shirt and dress shoes.

The no-nos

It’s important to note that there are some items of clothing that are strictly prohibited at the Grand National Festival. At the very top of the list is sportswear so avoid wearing tracksuits and trainers, as well as fancy dress costumes. There is a time and a place for these outfits but it is certainly not the Grand National Festival in mid-April.

To end off, the Grand National Festival is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your style and sophistication. Ultimately, by following these steps you won’t look out of place and are sure to have an unforgettable experience.