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What to Wear to the 2025 Grand National: Your Ultimate Race-Day Style Guide
Aintree fashion decoded – from Ladies’ Day flair to Grand National elegance
The Randox Grand National Festival is one of the standout events in the British sporting and social calendar. Each April, Aintree Racecourse becomes a vibrant stage not only for thrilling steeplechase action but for some of the most daring, elegant and imaginative fashion displays in the UK.
Whether you’re aiming for glamorous statement-making on Ladies’ Day, timeless elegance on Grand National Saturday, or simply seeking inspiration to feel your best while placing a flutter, this guide is your all-access pass to dressing with confidence and class at Aintree in 2025.
The Style of Aintree: What Makes the Grand National Fashion So Special?
Unlike Royal Ascot, the Grand National does not enforce a strict dress code. However, tradition – and the cameras – dictate that racegoers pull out all the stops. Aintree’s ethos is simple yet stylish: “Dress to feel your best”.
Expect a wide range of looks: structured dresses, bold prints, sharply tailored suits, and, of course, spectacular headwear. It’s a day where fashion takes centre stage alongside form guides and finish lines.
Ladies’ Day: Friday 4 April – Glamour, Colour and Competition
Ladies’ Day is the undisputed fashion highlight of the Grand National Festival. A day synonymous with eye-catching style, Liverpool’s most stylish step out in full force – with fashionistas vying for top honours in the Style Awards, proudly sponsored once again by River Island in 2025. The prizes include River Island vouchers, tickets for Ladies’ Day 2026 and much more.
With ITV coverage and national media attention, this is your chance to make a statement on the biggest racing catwalk of the year.
Women’s Race-Day Fashion: What to Wear
There are no official rules, but style matters. Think chic, confident and weather-aware.
👗 Key Fashion Trends for 2025:
- Dresses & Jumpsuits – Look out for bold colours, floral prints, midis, and tailored wide-leg jumpsuits for a sleek, flattering silhouette.
- Blazers & Coats – An early-April essential. Choose a structured blazer or elegant trench to stay warm without compromising on style.
- Headwear – The bigger, the better! From floral fascinators to sculptural hats, headpieces are non-negotiable on Ladies’ Day.
- Footwear – Wedges, block heels, or fashionable flats are racecourse-savvy alternatives to stilettos.
- Sustainable Style – With eco-conscious dressing on the rise, consider vintage pieces, recycled materials, and rentals to impress in the new sustainable category.
Men’s Grand National Style: Tailored, Timeless and Trend-Driven
Menswear at Aintree is all about sharp tailoring with a playful edge. Whether you’re aiming for country classic or city chic, now is the time to bring out your best threads.
👔 Must-Haves for Men in 2025:
- Suits & Blazers – Tweed, checks, and classic three-pieces are evergreen choices. Linen or cotton blends keep it comfortable in spring.
- Shirts & Accessories – Add interest with patterned shirts, bold ties, or colourful pocket squares.
- Hats – Flat caps remain popular, but fedoras and even bowler hats offer a vintage flourish.
- Shoes – Go for polished brogues, Oxfords, or smart loafers. Trainers are allowed, but rarely stylish.
Saturday: Grand National Day – Sophistication and Tradition
The Grand National itself (Saturday, 5 April) leans into classic race-day refinement. While still stylish, the tone is more elegant than extravagant.
🧍♂️ For Men:
- Navy, grey, and brown suits lead the way.
- Accessories like ties, cufflinks, and subtle lapel pins add polish.
🧍♀️ For Women:
- Pastel hues, smart tailoring, and classic silhouettes replace the daring drama of Friday.
- Headwear is smaller and more understated, but still expected.
Celebrity Style Inspiration: Aintree’s Best-Dressed Icons
Aintree’s front row always includes familiar faces – and their looks often set the tone.
- Coleen Rooney – Effortlessly combines designer glamour with accessible high-street flair.
- Cilla Black – The late singer was known for striking colour and dramatic millinery.
- Paddy McGuinness – Embraces bold suits with confident styling.
- Jamie Carragher – Consistently sharp in classic three-pieces with a nod to heritage tailoring.
Looking to them is a great way to strike the right balance between tradition and trend.
Race-Day Styling Tips: Fashion Meets Function
Don’t forget: you’re at a racecourse, not a runway. Comfort matters too.
👜 Practical Style Advice:
- Smart layering – Coats, shawls or wraps keep you warm without ruining the look.
- Secure handbags – Opt for crossbodies or clutches with straps.
- Check the weather – Consider chic umbrellas, weatherproof bags, or even elegant raincoats.
- Comfy shoes – You’ll be on your feet — wedges or block heels are your best friend.
Make 2025 Your Most Stylish Grand National Yet
The Grand National Festival is more than a racing event — it’s a chance to showcase your personality, creativity, and elegance. Whether you’re aiming to win a Style Award, wow the crowds on Ladies’ Day, or keep things classically refined on Grand National Saturday, your outfit tells your story.
With River Island back as official style partner and a renewed focus on sustainable fashion, the 2025 Grand National promises to be one of the most fashionable festivals yet.
So whatever your look — fearless or formal, modern or vintage — make sure you walk through those Aintree gates looking and feeling your absolute best.
📍 Randox Grand National Festival 2025
🗓️ Ladies’ Day: Friday 4 April
🏇 Grand National Day: Saturday 5 April
🎁 Style Awards Prizes Worth Over £5,000
Now’s the time to plan your outfit, prep your hat, and polish those shoes – the Aintree style stakes are officially open.
