One thing I miss from the UK that has no real equivalent in Asia is Royal Ascot – think beautiful weather, stunning outfits, BIG hats and some serious adrenaline pumping as you cheer on your horse!
The 5-day world-famous horse racing festival took place in June this year, attracting some of the best thoroughbreds to compete. Royal Ascot has been one of the UK’s leading sporting events for more than 300 years and is also known as the most extravagant derby in the world.
But don’t worry if you’re not into horse racing; the festival itself is way more entertaining than just watching the races. In fact, more eyes are on the girls that attend Gold Cup Day (AKA Ladies Day), as women come dressed head-to-toe in their most glamorous ensembles. From a delicate floral headpiece to an oversized peacock-inspired hat, you’ll see it all!
The Queen made an appearance on Ladies Day in a mint green ensemble, looking elegant as usual. However, there was sad news for the Queen, as one of her horses (Capel Path) suffered a serious injury later that afternoon.
Prince Andrew and his daughter Princess Beatrice came to the parade in a carriage with the Queen. Princess Beatrice looked Royal Ascot-ly good in a chic white dress and a bright orange and blue hat by Laura Apsit Livens, which added a subtle finishing touch to her simple outfit.
Princess Anne (the Queen’s daughter) was joined by Princess Eugenie (Prince Andrew’s younger daughter) in the same carriage. Princess Anne is probably the most frugal member of the Royal Family – she’s happy to repeat the same outfits at different occasions over the years, winning compliments on her thrify ways. Given that the Royal Family is often seen to be trying to cut costs in the public eye, it’s a gesture that has gone down well with many people.
Anyone know what the Duchess Of Cambridge was up to with national sweethearts Prince George and Princess Charlotte on that day? I’d love to have seen what Kate would have worn for such an iconic British event.
Simon Baker, the Longines Ambassador of Elegance, also appeared at Royal Ascot with his wife and daughter.
There were also plenty of other interesting outfits from the rest of the race-going crowd… and of course, plenty of super extravagant hats. Seriously, some of these could be exhibited at the Victoria & Albert Museum!
Carina Lau, the famous actress from Hong Kong, was one of the few Chinese visitors who was spotted at Royal Ascot. However, her ensemble was rather low-key and casual in comparison to most of the oufits we’ve seen.
I wish I can somehow manage to find the time to attend Royal Ascot again, hopefully in the very near future. A week of playing dress-up! Who wouldn’t love that?!
Tags: England, horse racings, Longines, Royal Ascot, royal family, socialites, Summer, 夏季, 浪琴, 皇室, 英國, 賽馬