What to Wear to the Races – Grand National Style Guide 2026
Grand National week is nearly here, and Aintree always brings that special kind of excitement. The outfits, the photos, the atmosphere, it’s the sort of day you plan properly, because you will remember it.
If you’re searching what to wear to the races, this Grand National style guide is your shortcut. We have put together three looks that feel polished and wearable, then finished each one with jewellery that pulls everything together.
Now, if the goal is to make a powerful statement that’ll linger in the memories of those lucky enough to witness you, this outfit is definitely the way to go. The Sophisticated
If your plan is to walk in and make the room pause for a second, this is the look. Think modern elegance with a crisp black and white dress. It feels confident, clean, and quietly powerful.
Add a black fascinator to echo the darker tones, then keep the accessories sharp. A neat clutch, classic heels, and you’re done. The outfit already speaks, so your jewellery should whisper, then sparkle when it catches the light.
For this look, we love a diamond tennis bracelet and diamond drop earrings. They elevate the whole outfit, without taking over.
The Jewellery
Brilliant Cut Diamond Tennis Bracelet: https://staging.hancocksjewellers.co.uk/platinum-5-12ct-brilliant-cut-diamond-bracelet/
White Gold Diamond Drop Earrings: https://staging.hancocksjewellers.co.uk/graduated-white-gold-diamond-drop-earrings/
The Outfit
Dress: (Marks and Spencer’s) https://www.marksandspencer.com/colour-block-high-neck-pleated-midaxi-dress/p/clp23064319
Bag: (Phase 8) https://www.phase-eight.com/product/grosgrain-bow-clutch-100118505000.html
Hat: (Phase 8) https://www.phase-eight.com/product/plaited-boater-fascinator-10020710351.html
This one is for the woman who brings the sunshine. Florals at the races always feel right, especially in spring, and this dress does the work for you. It’s joyful, fresh, and made for a standout entrance.
Keep the jewellery light and bright. A diamond pendant adds just enough glow at the neckline. Then finish with earrings that move as you do, perfect for photos, and perfect for that first glass of fizz.
To pull it together, choose heels in a soft pink tone. It keeps the look playful but still polished.
The Jewellery
Earrings: https://staging.hancocksjewellers.co.uk/georg-jensen-mercy-sterling-silver-long-twist-earrings/
Pendant: https://staging.hancocksjewellers.co.uk/platinum-brilliant-cut-diamond-claw-set-pendant-49482/
The Outfit
Dress: (Phase 8) https://www.phase-eight.com/product/lizzie-floral-dress-10001800000.html
Heels: (NEXT) https://www.next.co.uk/style/su604995/f14016
Want to look fashion forward but still race day appropriate? This is the style to go for. A matching blazer and trouser set feels modern, confident, and very put together. It also gives you options if the weather changes.
This look is the perfect base for emeralds. Green brings a rich hit of colour, and it looks stunning against neutrals. Add green heels for an intentional finish, then keep the rest clean.
For jewellery, go for one strong focus. We love an emerald pendant and matching earrings. It looks bold but still refined.
The Jewellery
Pendant: https://staging.hancocksjewellers.co.uk/pear-emerald-and-diamond-cluster-pendant-52386/
Earrings: https://staging.hancocksjewellers.co.uk/pear-shaped-emerald-and-diamond-drop-earrings/
The Outfit
Blazer: (Boden) https://www.boden.com/products/women-woodbridge-linen-blazer-ivory-delicate-blossom-u0448ecr
Trousers: (Boden) https://www.boden.com/products/women-kensington-linen-trousers-ivory-delicate-blossom-r0855ivo
Heels: (Paradox London) https://www.paradoxlondon.com/products/lani-emerald-green
Final Thoughts
Keep jewellery focused
When you are deciding what to wear to the races, remember this one rule. Choose two key pieces and stop there. A bracelet plus earrings, or a pendant plus earrings, works every time.
Make it feel like you
Grand National fashion is all about confidence. The best outfit is the one that feels natural on you. Pick a look that matches your personality, then wear it like you mean it.
Plan for the day
You’ll be on your feet. Photos will happen. That means choose shoes you can walk in, it will help keep that smile on your face, and a bag that fits the essentials.
If you want to complete your race day look with diamond earrings, a tennis bracelet, an emerald pendant, or a touch of Georg Jensen, come and see us on King Street in Manchester. We’ll help you choose pieces that suit your outfit and feel like you.