Ladies Day at Aintree Racecourse is underway, showcasing a vibrant display of fashion and excitement as part of the Grand National Festival, which began on Thursday, April 3, and will conclude with the Grand National itself on Saturday. The event is a staple in the social calendar, drawing significant attention both locally and internationally.

As the gates opened at 10:30 am on Friday, April 4, racegoers began to arrive in a kaleidoscope of eye-catching outfits, with many taking advantage of the sunny weather to flaunt their styles. The trend this year leaned towards bold colours and various themes, with patterns such as polka dots making a notable appearance among attendees. The atmosphere was lively, with stunning dresses, elaborate fascinators, and statement headpieces reflecting the glamour that Ladies Day is renowned for.

The Jockey Club characterised Ladies Day as a celebration of “glamour, style, and excitement”, with the event being especially notable for its highly anticipated Style Awards. Facilitated by high-street retailer River Island, the awards seek to honour the most stylish racegoers of the day. Competitors entered the contest to vie for one of the two coveted prizes, each consisting of a £3,000 voucher for River Island, two Garden Club tickets for next year’s Ladies Day, a Randox Health full-body package, and additional gifts valued at £1,000. A new award for the most sustainably dressed racegoer was also introduced, offering a similar package, emphasising a commitment to eco-friendly fashion.

Among those recognised were Katie Morris, 22, from St Helens, who claimed the title of best dressed with her striking polka dot dress, paired with a second-hand hat from Vinted. Lucas Nurney, 23, from Barnsley, also received the best-dressed award, showcasing a striking attire sourced entirely from ASOS. Rachel Ellis, 53, won the sustainable dressing award with her stylish outfit derived from second-hand materials, including a dress originally sold by Nobody’s Child made from recycled fabric.

The event this year encapsulated a spirit of community and fun, with over 150,000 attendees expected over the three-day festival. Guests not only celebrated the thrilling races but also engaged in live music and mingling within the festive atmosphere that permeated the racecourse.

The day also featured a significant outreach effort, with several jockeys visiting Alder Hey Children’s Hospital prior to the festivities. Notable riders, including Nico De Boinville and Harry Skelton, spent time with young patients and their families, fostering goodwill and spreading cheer beyond the racecourse’s confines.

As the sun shone on Aintree, vibrant crowds filled the stands, with drinks flowing freely in celebration. With high-stakes races and a fashion showdown drawing participants and spectators alike, Ladies Day at Aintree clearly remains a fixture of excitement and style that’s eagerly anticipated each year. The anticipation now builds for the Grand National on Saturday, a defining race in British sporting culture, promising to attract a global audience.

Source: Noah Wire Services