The Ultimate Race Day Style Guide 2026: Ties, Bow Ties & Suit Pairing Tips
- Emma Moore
- Apr 1
- 4 min read
By Emma Moore, Founder of Arsenic and Old Lace
First published June 2025. Updated April 2026 to reflect the latest race season trends and 2026 racing calendar.
As the British summer racing calendar begins to gather pace, there’s a familiar shift in the air. Invitations start landing, group chats turn to outfits, and suddenly weekends are no longer just weekends—they’re race days.
From the elegance of Royal Ascot to the electric atmosphere of Glorious Goodwood and the timeless charm of The Epsom Derby, racing season in 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most stylish yet. And if there’s one thing I’ve learnt over the years, it’s this: what you wear matters just as much as the horse you back.
At Arsenic and Old Lace, we’ve spent years working with heritage fabrics and traditional British styling, and one thing always holds true—the right tie or bow tie doesn’t just finish an outfit, it defines it.
So, if you’re building your race day look this season, here’s how to get it right.
Charcoal Suit: Understated Authority
The charcoal suit remains one of the most reliable choices for race day—sharp, versatile, and effortlessly refined. It’s the kind of suit that lets your accessories do the talking.
For a clean, classic look, I always suggest a silver or soft grey bow tie. It keeps everything cohesive while still feeling elevated. If you’re looking to introduce a little more personality, a deep burgundy tie works beautifully—rich without being overpowering.
According to coverage from British GQ, tonal dressing continues to dominate formalwear in 2026, with subtle contrasts doing far more work than bold clashes.
Blue Suit: Confident and Contemporary
A blue suit is where things start to get interesting. It’s confident, modern, and incredibly versatile—perfect for race days where style is part of the spectacle.
This is where pattern comes into play. A floral or heritage print bow tie—particularly in warmer tones like pinks or soft oranges—adds energy and individuality. Alternatively, a deep navy tie creates a more refined, layered look that feels intentional rather than loud.
Styling reports from Vogue UK have highlighted a clear shift towards expressive accessories at events like Ascot, with men embracing colour and pattern more confidently than ever before.
Black Suit: Formal with an Edge
The black suit will always have its place—especially for more formal enclosures or evening race events. It’s timeless, yes, but it doesn’t have to be predictable.
A classic black bow tie is always appropriate, but I find the most interesting looks come from subtle contrast. Deep emerald or royal blue ties bring just enough colour to lift the outfit without compromising its elegance.
It’s a look that feels quietly confident—and that’s often what stands out most.
Grey Suit: Effortless Balance
Grey sits perfectly between formal and relaxed, which makes it ideal for daytime racing. It’s a colour that responds beautifully to softer tones.
Pastel bow ties—think blush pinks or gentle sky blues—add a lightness that works perfectly in a summer setting. For something more understated, a darker grey tie creates a layered, tonal look that feels incredibly polished.
The key here is balance—nothing too harsh, nothing too loud. Just considered, effortless style.
Cream Suit: The Season Favourite
If there’s one colour that truly belongs to race season, it’s cream. It captures everything we love about British summer events—light, relaxed, and just a little bit indulgent.
With a cream suit, softer colours always win. Pale blues, sage greens, and subtle gold tones all complement beautifully. Patterned bow ties—especially those inspired by heritage prints—add depth without overwhelming the look.
At events like Royal Ascot, lighter tailoring continues to dominate men’s style, particularly in June’s warmer weather.
Finishing Touches: Where Style Comes Together
A tie or bow tie might lead the outfit, but the supporting details matter just as much.
A well-chosen pocket square adds contrast and texture—just be careful not to match it too perfectly. The most considered looks always have a touch of contrast. Cufflinks, too, shouldn’t be overlooked—they’re subtle, but they signal attention to detail.
In my experience, it’s these finishing touches that separate a good outfit from one that gets noticed.
FAQ: Race Day Style for Men
What tie should I wear to the races?It depends on your suit colour, but generally opt for something that complements rather than matches exactly. Heritage patterns, florals, and rich tones like burgundy or emerald work particularly well for race day.
Is it better to wear a tie or bow tie to Royal Ascot?Both are appropriate, especially at Royal Ascot. Bow ties tend to feel more traditional and formal, while ties offer a slightly more contemporary look.
Can I wear patterned ties to the races?Absolutely. Race day is one of the few occasions where pattern is encouraged. Just ensure the rest of your outfit is balanced so the look feels considered rather than overwhelming.
What colour tie works best with a blue suit?Navy for a refined look, or warmer tones like pink and orange if you want to stand out. Patterned designs also pair particularly well with blue tailoring.
Do I need a pocket square for race day?It’s not essential, but highly recommended. A pocket square adds depth and personality, and can elevate even the simplest outfit.
A Final Thought
Race day style isn’t about following rules—it’s about understanding them well enough to make them your own.
Whether you’re in charcoal, blue, black, grey, or cream, the right tie or bow tie has the power to transform your entire look. It’s the detail people notice, even if they don’t realise it straight away.
And as the 2026 racing season unfolds, one thing is certain—it’s as much a celebration of style as it is of sport.
Whatever your plans this summer, dress well, enjoy the moment, and back a winner or two.
At Arsenic and Old Lace, we’ll take care of the rest.
With love,
Emma Moore
Founder, Arsenic and Old Lace
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