Cheltenham Festival 2026 Style Guide

The Cheltenham Festival 2026 Style Guide

A Modern Expression of British Racing Style

The Cheltenham Aesthetic: Heritage, Refined

Cheltenham style begins with respect for the setting. The rolling Cotswolds, the crisp March air, and the sense of history all inform how people dress. The core aesthetic for 2026 is refined countryside dressing—heritage silhouettes reimagined with contemporary cuts and luxurious finishes.

Natural fibres dominate: wool, tweed, felt, and leather are essential. Colour palettes lean towards timeless neutrals—camel, stone, chocolate, navy, forest green—with seasonal accents of burgundy, burnt orange, and soft powder blue. Texture is key: layering different weights and finishes adds interest while remaining practical.

Outerwear: The Statement Layer

At Cheltenham, outerwear is the foundation of the outfit, not an afterthought. Capes, ponchos, and tailored coats remain central, offering warmth, movement, and visual impact.

The Grace and Dotty Poncho is perfectly suited to Cheltenham Festival 2026 and fits perfectly into our Cheltenham Festival 2026 Style Guide. Elegant yet practical, it delivers effortless sophistication while allowing freedom of movement across grass, gravel, and grandstands. Draped over a tailored knit dress, slim trousers, or a tweed co-ord, the poncho adds fluidity and polish without sacrificing warmth. Its heritage-inspired design sits beautifully alongside classic British brands while still feeling fresh and modern.

For those preferring structured tailoring, Holland and Cooper coats remain a Festival staple. Known for their sharp lines and luxurious fabrics, these coats pair seamlessly with ponchos layered beneath or worn open for a relaxed finish. Meanwhile, Welligogs offer stylish protection against unpredictable weather, combining waterproof performance with elegant silhouettes that never feel overly technical.

Headwear: A Cheltenham Essential

Cheltenham has always favoured hats with purpose—pieces that feel grounded in tradition rather than overtly theatrical. In 2026, structured felt hats and fedoras take centre stage.

The Grace and Dotty Fedora with Feathers is a defining accessory for the Festival. With its classic fedora shape elevated by feather detailing, it strikes the perfect balance between heritage and personality. The feathers add subtle movement and individuality, catching the light without overpowering the outfit. Worn with the Grace and Dotty Poncho, it creates a cohesive, confident look that feels intentional and unmistakably race-day appropriate.

Keep hair soft and understated—loose waves, a low chignon, or a sleek ponytail—to allow the hat to remain the focal point.

Footwear: Style That Goes the Distance

Footwear at Cheltenham must be both elegant and resilient. Long days on your feet demand comfort, but never at the expense of polish.

Fairfax and Favor continue to dominate Festival footwear in 2026. Their iconic heeled boots, ankle boots, and leather detailing offer the perfect balance of luxury and practicality. Knee-high boots paired with dresses or slim trousers create a classic Cheltenham silhouette, while block heels and sturdy soles ensure confidence on uneven ground.

Leather brogues and refined loafers are also popular choices, particularly for those leaning into a more tailored aesthetic. Suede remains fashionable but should be weather-appropriate and well-treated.

Building the Outfit: Layering with Intent

Cheltenham outfits are built in layers, allowing for changing temperatures throughout the day. Fine-gauge knitwear, roll-necks, silk blouses, and tailored waistcoats all play a role. Tweed skirts and trousers remain iconic, especially when paired with modern cuts and softer fabrics.

The Grace and Dotty Poncho works beautifully as a transitional layer, allowing you to adapt easily between indoor and outdoor settings. Underneath, keep silhouettes streamlined to balance the poncho’s fluid shape.

Accessories: Understated Luxury

Accessories in 2026 are refined and purposeful. Leather gloves, silk scarves, and structured handbags elevate outfits without overwhelming them. Crossbody bags or small top-handle styles are ideal for navigating busy enclosures.

Jewellery remains minimal—gold hoops, delicate chains, and heritage-inspired pieces complement the countryside aesthetic. Avoid anything overly flashy; Cheltenham style is about quiet confidence.

Weather-Ready, Always Elegant

March weather is famously unpredictable, making brands like Welligogs essential for Festival dressing. Waterproof coats, clothing and accessories ensure you’re prepared without compromising style. The key is choosing pieces that integrate seamlessly with the rest of your outfit rather than standing apart as purely functional items.

The Cheltenham Mindset

Ultimately, Cheltenham Festival style in 2026 is about confidence, comfort, and authenticity. It’s not about wearing the loudest outfit in the enclosure, but about feeling assured, well-dressed, and ready to enjoy every moment.

Whether wrapped in a Grace and Dotty Poncho, crowned with a Grace and Dotty Fedora with Feathers, stepping out in Fairfax and Favor boots, or layered in Holland and Cooper tailoring with Welligogs protection, the modern Cheltenham attendee dresses with intention.

This is British racing style at its finest—timeless, elegant, and effortlessly self-assured.