Fancy hats, horse races, pitchers of Pims . . . Friday I spent the day partaking in what is perhaps the greatest British tradition of all time, the Royal Ascot!

Dressed in our most elegant headwear and lightweight summer dresses, we boarded the train from London to Ascot. The sun was shining bright and the sky was the clearest blue, so in a nutshell, perfect weather awaited us.

Based on tradition, ladies are expected to wear elegant dresses and hats, while men are to wear waistcoats and top hats. This is the norm for attendees in the Grandstand, and of course, the Royal Enclosure.

Our tickets were for the Silver Ring which, for those who are not familiar, is a less demanding structure where Ascot-goers are able to portray a more laid back style, yet still maintain a proper sense of fashion.


The event commenced with the royal procession, where the queen and other royalty paraded around the track in gilded carriages, which were led by guards in shining red uniforms. There were several races throughout the day, each of which we stayed for. To get the best view, we made our way to the front of the gate and watched with immense exhilaration as the horses sped down the track, cheering for our favorite. I placed a small bet but unfortunately had no success. Ah well, c'est la vie. Ascot was amazing and I am so thrilled to have had this classic British experience!