Royal Ascot dress code rules the royals strictly adhere to

The British royal family has been turning out in their finest for Royal Ascot this week.

The much-anticipated start to the British racing season has been met with perfect conditions and this year the sun has been shining down on guests' beautiful ensembles, featuring pastels and floral designs.

While racing events traditionally see attendees wearing their best, Royal Ascot takes this expectation to an elite level.

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Not only does the event have a dress code, but that code differs depending on the enclosure being frequented.

And the finest clothes will always been found in the Royal Enclosure.

Here, ladies are expected to wear dresses or skirts that fall modestly just above the knee or longer, with shoulder straps that are a minimum of 2.5cm wide.

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Women may also wear trouser suits of matching material and colour or jumpsuits.

Hats "must be worn" however so too can a headpiece or hatinator with a minimum base of 10cms.

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This is a recent relaxation of headwear guidelines for Royal Ascot allowing for more subdued headwear.

There are no rules listed when it comes to shoes however most royals in attendance opt for heels.

Gentlemen must wear "morning dress of black, grey or navy" with a waistcoat and necktie, a black or grey top hat, which "may be removed within a restaurant or Private Box", and black dress shoes with socks that cover the ankles.

This year has seen the royals embrace pastels and florals, although Queen Camilla chose a vivid blue dress for her first appearance this week.

What isn't allowed, and what you will never see the royals wearing, is outfits that show their midriffs, any dresses or tops that are strapless, halter neck, spaghetti strap or that are sheer, as in "see-through" or "entirely transparent."

Midriffs must not be shown and novelty patterns should also be avoided, along with trainers, denim, leggings or shorts.

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