I’m a fashion expert and these are the style rules to know this season | Royal | News

As a fashion expert, I’ve seen my fair share of statement dressing – but Kempton Park over the weekend proved that British race-day style still knows how to steal the show. Much like the Royal Family’s longstanding influence over the racing calendar, the crowd leaned into tradition with a modern edge, proving that timeless country dressing continues to set the benchmark both on and off the royal stage.

Against a backdrop of crisp winter air and clinking champagne flutes, the stands became a runway in their own right, where sport, society and unapologetic style collided in the most compelling way. On the track, it was a day for the history books. The Jukebox Man, trained by Ben Jones, stormed to victory in the Grade One Ladbrokes King George VI Chase, delivering the Boxing Day highlight in emphatic style. Over in the hurdles, Sir Gino, expertly ridden by Nico de Boinville, claimed the Ladbrokes Christmas Hurdle – proof that this season’s racing talent is as sharp as the tailoring in the stands. Let’s just say there were almost as many gasps for the finishes as there were for the coats.

And the crowd did not disappoint. Football legend Harry Redknapp brought his trademark charm trackside, while Ted Lasso star Kola Bokinni added a touch of Hollywood glamour to the proceedings – though both were slightly upstaged by the fashion theatre unfolding around them. If Ascot is glamour and Cheltenham is tradition; Kempton is where people have fun with it.

Tweed was, unsurprisingly, everywhere – but not the dusty, museum-piece kind. This was modern tweed, the kind of classic heritage dressing which has been long championed by the Royal Family during the racing calendar.

Deep emeralds, oxblood burgundies and rich navy blues dominated, punctuated by flashes of camel, ivory and even bold reds. It echoed the confident country palette often seen on royal walkabouts, proving that classic British style still sets the tone – even beyond palace gates.

What struck me most was how that royal influence has filtered down. High-end luxury sat comfortably alongside clever high-street buys, showing that race-day dressing is no longer about price tags but about confidence and cohesion. I saw beautifully cut wool coats layered over affordable knits, polished boots paired with high-street tailoring, and accessories doing the heavy lifting.

It’s clear that while the Firm may inspire the aesthetic, race-goers are now interpreting it in their own way – and doing it well. Here are my expert-approved picks, your ultimate style guide for the racing season ahead.

What really stood out at Kempton was the dominance of proper winter coats – the kind that feel considered, not disposable.

Think structured wool styles in block colours, rich neutrals and unmistakably British textures like tweed, checks and heritage weaves.

These weren’t novelty outerwear moments, but pieces designed to anchor a wardrobe for years rather than a single season. It was reassuring to see racegoers leaning into longevity, proving that timeless craftsmanship still outshines trend-led dressing when it comes to winter style.

Layering was approached with quiet confidence rather than excess, and it worked beautifully. A simple knitted dress, a fine roll-neck paired with a tailored skirt, or soft cashmere worn under a statement coat delivered warmth without bulk.

The key was balance – streamlined silhouettes that allowed layers to enhance rather than overwhelm the look.

It felt elegant, effortless and entirely in tune with the realities of a long winter’s day trackside.

When it came to accessories, practicality led the way – and rightly so. Crossbody bags, neat shoulder styles and structured handhelds dominated, offering freedom of movement without sacrificing a chic aesthetic.

These were bags designed to carry the essentials and still look refined when tucked under the arm or worn hands-free.

It was a reminder that race-day accessories should support the day, not complicate it.

Perhaps the most sensible style takeaway of the day was the footwear. Comfortable boots reigned supreme, from sleek ankle styles to knee-high designs that offered warmth and support on uneven ground.

Importantly, heels were present, but measured – adding a subtle lift rather than risking form over function.

The result was footwear that felt glamorous enough for the occasion, yet grounded in the reality of winter racing.

So whether you’re heading to Cheltenham, Sandown or gearing up for the Grand National, consider this your cue.

Invest in a great coat, don’t shy away from colour, embrace texture, and remember: race-day fashion should feel as thrilling as the finish line.

If Kempton taught me anything, it’s that style, much like racing, is all about backing yourself – and knowing when to make a winning statement.