The Cheltenham Festival is the pinnacle of the national hunt racing season, drawing in around 250,000 racegoers each year. Spanning across four days this year, from 11-14 March, the event is the perfect excuse to immerse yourself in the heritage of the British countryside and embrace the classic country style while enjoying the thrill of the races.
But what should you be wearing to Cheltenham in 2025?
Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first-time visitor, we’ve got the ultimate style guide to ensure you look the part while staying warm and comfortable — because let’s face it, we never know what the March weather is going to bring!
The Dress Code: Classic and Practical
Unlike other race meetings, Cheltenham has no strict dress code, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t dress to impress. While the horse racing plays a huge part, there’s no denying that Cheltenham Festival fashion takes the spotlight. The event centres on sophisticated country style, with a strong focus on traditional tweeds, elegant coats, and stylish accessories.
Timeless Tweed
A warm and stylish tweed cape or well-tailored coat is not only a staple for the Cheltenham Festival but an essential for any country-loving racegoer. This year, expect to see modern takes on heritage tweed, with more streamlined cuts and subtle colour contrasts. Herringbone and check patterns remain classics. But rich earthy tones, think moss green, deep chestnut, and heather grey will be everywhere.
Pair your tweed with a smart wool skirt or tailored trousers and knee-high boots from Fairfax and Favor for a sophisticated yet practical finish.
The Must-Have Outerwear
With chilly mornings and the potential for rain, your outerwear choice is crucial. If you’re worried about a practical yet style-lacking coat impacting your look, a cosy cape with a fur-trimmed collar could be the perfect alternative. Cape coats and structured ponchos have been making a stylish comeback for a while now and it’s easy to see why when they present the perfect solution to keeping warm while remaining stylish.
Style Meets Comfort
With the unpredictable British weather, navigating the racecourse means choosing footwear that is both stylish and practical. Knee-high leather boots are a Cheltenham classic, offering warmth and comfort while adding a touch of country sophistication. Timeless brown or black leather with minimal embellishments give a refined look, but if ankle boots are more your style, make sure they have a sturdy sole — wet and muddy conditions are common in March!
Accessories to Elevate Your Look
No Cheltenham outfit is complete without the right accessories. A statement fedora with feathers or a classic felt trilby adds the perfect finishing touch while keeping you warm. Deep jewel tones like emerald green, garnet red or sapphire blue or the neutral hues of beige, tan or charcoal are hot colours for 2025 and will be sure to perfectly complement your ensemble.
However, if hats are not your thing, gloves, cashmere scarves, and structured handbags are all key additions to your race-day wardrobe. Leather gloves in tan or black offer both warmth and elegance. While a classic wool or cashmere scarf provides a layer of cosy sophistication.
The Final Touches
As you prepare for Cheltenham in 2025, remember that style and comfort go hand in hand. Cheltenham style is all about looking polished yet practical. A touch of natural makeup, softly curled hair, and minimal but elegant jewellery will complete your look without feeling overdone. Think timeless country chic with a modern twist.
Ready to find your perfect race-day look? Explore our latest collection of country classic options at Grace & Dotty to ensure you turn heads at Cheltenham this year.
