What to wear to Aintree: Princess Kate inspired dresses | Royal | News

Aintree races are right around the corner, and if you’ve ever tried to pull together a race-day outfit for the day, you’ll know it takes serious planning. You want impact, a proper wow moment, but it still needs to be wearable, comfortable and smart enough to last all day. Time is running out – but don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you.

The annual Grand National event is now just as famous for its fashion as it is for the racing – think less sidelines, more catwalk. With the 2026 event running from Thursday, April 9, to Saturday, April 11, and tickets are still available, the pressure to deliver a standout outfit is officially on. So where do you start?

For me, it always comes back to Princess Catherine. She has quietly mastered race-day dressing over the years and has become the ultimate muse. The royal always looks well put-together but never overdone, trend-aware without trying too hard. And this season, it’s all about taking cues from her playbook.

Think polka dots making a comeback, butter yellow having a major moment, and striking colours that actually turn heads. It’s feminine, flattering, and crucially, it works for the unpredictable British weather.

If you’re stuck on what to wear, consider this your shortcut. We’ve rounded up the best high street buys inspired by Princess Catherine’s most iconic race-day moments – and trust me, these are the pieces worth snapping up before everyone else does.

Even better, if you order using next-day delivery before midday on Tuesday, 7 April, these looks will arrive just in time.

If you loved Princess Catherine’s iconic polka dot race-day moment back in 2022, this Coast dress is a seriously chic alternative that still delivers that same timeless elegance.

While Catherine’s version featured that signature draped detail across the front, this design switches things up with a statement corsage-style flower at the neckline – giving it that same standout wow moment, just with a softer, more modern twist.

I love the black waistband, which cinches everything in beautifully, paired with the flowing, tiered ruffle hem. It’s elegant, flattering and incredibly wearable, and with sizes ranging from 8 to 18, it’s one of those pieces that feels special enough for race day but timeless enough to bring out again and again.

If you’ve been eyeing up Princess Catherine’s butter yellow Emilia Wickstead dress she’s worn on repeat, this is a gorgeous way to tap into the trend with a softer, summer-ready twist. Butter yellow was a huge hit last year, and it’s proving it’s not going anywhere this season either.

This design from Club London leans into that same elegant, feminine feel but swaps structured tailoring for premium lace, giving it a lighter, more relaxed edge. The high neckline and collar detail keep it feeling refined, while the short sleeves and cinched waist make it perfect for warmer days.

It’s one of those pretty, classic dresses that works for everything – weddings, garden parties, or dressed down with sandals. With sizes ranging from 6 to 16, it’s a versatile piece you’ll find yourself reaching for all season long.

If there’s one thing Princess Catherine does brilliantly at the races, it’s a bold block colour – and this striking red dress from Ghost taps into that same head-turning energy.

While Catherine often opts for cinched waists and flowing silhouettes in statement shades, this design brings a slightly more refined edge with its more concealed neckline and soft crepe detailing. The long sleeves are a practical win too – perfect for when the clouds roll in, so you don’t have to think twice about staying comfortable all day.

The skirt falls into a flattering, fluid shape that skims the body beautifully without clinging, giving it that effortless, elegant feel. Style it with a matching fascinator, gold accessories and classic heels, and you’ve got a race-day look that feels instantly put together.

Available in sizes 8 to 18 and also in navy, it’s as versatile as it is striking – and shoppers are already sold. One happy customer wrote: “Very comfortable and flattering dress,” while another added they “love the quality.”

If you’re drawn to Princess Catherine’s love of crisp, tailored whites, this ivory design from Phase Eight offers a softer, more relaxed take on her signature style.

While Catherine often opts for sharper, structured white tailoring, this version leans into a more fluid silhouette with a sleeveless cut – perfect for warmer race days. The cinched waist belt mirrors her go-to shape, while the flowing pleated skirt adds movement and that effortless elegance she’s known for.

I love how the ivory tone softens the overall feel compared to Catherine’s brighter whites, especially when paired with black accessories – think a statement hat or clutch for that timeless, high-contrast finish.

Available in sizes 8 to 26, it’s a versatile piece that feels just as suited to race day as it does to weddings or summer events.