07/09/2026
If you love Hats & Glamour, then this week you're in for a real treat!
Keep an eye on the page for a first hand account of a spectacular event, full of colour, glamour, and exquisite creations. ✨🪞
Do you have a favourite Ascot colour? 🤎
At Heather Norman Hats, we specialise in handmade, bespoke hats for Royal Ascot and race days across the UK. From our atelier in the Cotswolds, every piece is handcrafted for precision, style and conformity with Ascot’s dress code requirements.
Whether you’re attending the Royal Enclosure, Queen Anne, Windsor or Village Enclosures, we create millinery that complements your outfit and enhances your confidence on race day.
Heather Norman Hats become very busy in the run up to Ascot, if you would like a bespoke made to order hat you will need to place your order by the beginning of May at the latest.
Contact Heather Norman
Royal Ascot Hat Guide: What to Wear
Ascot’s reputation for sartorial excellence means that the right hat isn’t just an accessory—it’s central to your overall look. Choosing the correct shape, size and style ensures elegance and compliance with enclosure dress codes.
Royal Enclosure
Queen Ann Enclosure
Village Enclosure
Windsor Enclosure
Royal Enclosure
For the most prestigious enclosure at Royal Ascot, formal headwear is essential.
A dress or top and skirt, with shoulder or halter neck straps (lace and chiffon fabrics are permitted, no minimum length)
Trouser suits are welcome and should be of matching material and colour
Jumpsuits should fall below the knee and comply with the above strap requirements
Traditional hats with a structured base are expected, and fascinators without a base or very small headpieces are not permitted.
Classic and refined silhouettes, such as wide-brim and tailored saucer shapes, work best with morning dress or tailored outfits.
Overseas Visitors�
Visitors are welcome to wear the formal National Dress of their country or Service Dress. If your National Dress does not include a hat or headpiece then you do not need to wear one. Religious headdress is permitted in place of a hat or headpiece.
Serving Military Personnel
Serving military personnel are welcome to wear Service Dress or equivalent.
Queen Ann Enclosure
A variety of statement hats, hatinators and dressier headpieces are suitable here.
Dress lengths, fabric choices and hat proportions should balance each other to create a polished race day look.
Hats must be worn. However, a headpiece or hatinator with a minimum base diameter of 4 inches / 10cm is acceptable.
Dresses and skirts should fall just above the knee or longer (lace and chiffon fabrics are permitted)
Shoulder straps must have a minimum width of 1 inch / 2.5cm
Jackets and pashminas may be worn. Tops and dresses beneath must still comply
Trouser suits are welcome and should be of matching material and colour
Jumpsuits should fall below the knee and comply with the shoulder strap requirements
Village Enclosure
This enclosure allows a broader range of styles—yet a hat or headpiece that elevates your outfit remains a key part of the dress etiquette.
A dress or top and skirt, with shoulder or halter neck straps (lace and chiffon fabrics are permitted, no minimum length)
Trouser suits are welcome and should be of matching material and colour
Jumpsuits should fall below the knee & comply with the above strap requirements
A hat, headpiece or fascinator
Windsor Enclosure
While the Windsor Enclosure does not enforce an official dress code, guests are encouraged to wear smart, race-appropriate attire with a hat or fascinator to complete their look.
It is recommended that ladies wear smart attire with a hat or fascinator.
Overseas Visitors�
Visitors are welcome to wear the formal National Dress of their country or Service Dress. If your National Dress does not include a hat or headpiece then you do not need to wear one. Religious headdress is permitted in place of a hat or headpiece.
Serving Military Personnel
Serving military personnel are welcome to wear Service Dress or equivalent.
Race Day Millinery Tips: Choosing Your Perfect Hat
Selecting the right Ascot hat style is as important as choosing your outfit. Here are professional tips for making your choice:
1. Understand Hat and Face Proportions
Match hat shapes to your proportions—for example, wide-brim hats complement midi dresses, while sleek pillbox hats pair beautifully with structured outfits.
2. Comply with Dress Code Requirements
Always check enclosure rules before selecting headwear, particularly for the Royal Enclosure where specific base measurements apply.
3. Select Quality Materials
Lightweight straw, sinamay and fine fabrics ensure comfort throughout a long day, while premium trims and detailing elevate your look.
4. Balance Colour and Outfit
Coordinating your hat with your outfit palette enhances consistency and creates a cohesive visual impact.
5. Timing Matters
Bespoke millinery often has lead times before events—start your design process early to avoid rush orders.
Why Choose Heather Norman Hats
Handmade Bespoke Millinery
Each hat is handcrafted to your measurements and style preferences, ensuring a unique piece that feels tailor-made for you.
Expertise with Race Day Fashion
With extensive experience creating Ascot race hats, we understand both the fashion and technical requirements of each enclosure. Our designs aren’t just stylish—they meet official dress codes.
Personalised Style Consultation
We provide expert guidance on choosing shapes, colours and headwear silhouettes that flatter you and integrate seamlessly with your race day attire.
Quality Craftsmanship
From the initial sketch to the final finish, our millinery reflects attention to detail, precision and the highest quality materials.
Contact Heather Norman
Bespoke Hat Services & Custom Orders
We offer:
Custom-made Ascot race hats
Hat consultations and fittings
Hat alterations and styling support
Hat and dress hire for race events
Contact us via phone or email to book an appointment and begin designing your perfect race day headpiece.
Useful Information ℹ️:
Telephone:
01454 582 453
07581 225 409.
Email:
[email protected]
25 High Street,
Chipping Sodbury
BS37 6BA
Monday 10am – 4:30pm
Tuesday 10am – 4:00pm
Wednesday – CLOSED *
Thursday 10am – 4:00pm
Friday. 10am – 4:00pm
Saturday 9am – 4:30pm
Sunday closed
* Appointments available (Please call to book.)
