How to ace the dress codes at Royal Ascot, Wimbledon and Henley.

The British summer season is packed with iconic sporting events that are as much about style as they are about sport. From the strawberries-and-cream charm of Wimbledon to the formal elegance of Royal Ascot, these occasions have become must-attend moments on the social calendar – and perfect opportunities to showcase impeccable style. Whether you're heading to Henley, Centre Court or the Royal Enclosure, here are our expert tips for dressing head-to-toe in seasonal sophistication.

1. Royal Ascot

Royal Ascot has been synonymous with pageantry, Great British style and its rather strict etiquette for over 300 years. Dress codes depend on what enclosure you are watching from. Gentlemen in the Royal Enclosure are required to wear morning dress in black or grey, which includes a waistcoat and tie, a top hat and black shoes. Meanwhile, a smart suit and tie is the name of the game in the Queen Anne and Village enclosures. Sock-wise, no matter your enclosure, you are required to wear socks to Royal Ascot and won’t be granted entry without. Royal Enclosure guests must stick to black or grey (stay safe and smart with our ribbed socks from our Simply Sartorial range in Ebony Black, Canon Ball Grey or Earl Grey) but anywhere else you can add some personality with something like our Pink Friday or a bold patterned pair like Jermyn St. Houndstooth.

2. Henley Royal Regatta

Since the first regatta in 1859, this boat race has become the most celebrated in the world. And with over 200 races, thousands of spectators, and Pimms-fuelled picnics on the riverbank, it is no wonder. While there is no formal dress code for the Regatta Enclosure, men typically wear blazers or boldly striped rowing club jackets with chinos. For gents lucky enough to find themselves in the Stewards Enclosure, the dress code is strictly lounge suits or a jacket, tie and smart trousers. You can definitely get away with bolder sock colours at Henley. To fit in yet stand out, try bold socks, like a pair in Saffron.

3. Wimbledon

Murray Mound (or Henman Hill, for the traditionalists), Pimms in hand, strawberries and cream at the ready, Centre Court set for legends. There’s no place like Wimbledon. A linchpin of the summer calendar. 

As the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, Wimbledon’s not just a sporting event – it’s a sartorial moment. What you wear has almost become as important as the tennis itself. And the unwritten rules are key here.

For courtside style, think summer suiting: a lightweight blazer, tailored trousers, and relaxed refinement. If you’re lucky enough to be heading to the Members’ Enclosure, note – ties are a must.

And when it comes to socks, leave the whites to the players. Courtside is your chance to bring some colour to the game. Go pastel with Simply Sartorial in shades like Skye Blue, Butter Yellow or Dusky Pink, keep it classic with French Blue, or try something a little more playful with a pattern like Spot of Style in Lavender, or Shaken & Stirred in Sage or Blue.