Queen Camilla attended the Cheltenham Festival, making a notable appearance at the event renowned for its horse racing prestige. Her visit on “Style Wednesday” was marked by her fashion choice, including an Anna Valentine outfit and a Lock & Co hat, aligning with the day’s emphasis on fashion. This attendance was significant as it was her first public outing following a recent controversy involving a photo related to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. King Charles was absent due to undergoing cancer treatment.

The event, which gathered various members of the royal family such as Zara Tindall, Princess Eugenie, and the Princess Royal, took place at the Cheltenham Racecourse. It attracted celebrities like footballer Tyrone Mings and TV presenter Stephen Mulhern, highlighting its blend of sport and glamour. However, Mark Dyer, a former army officer and mentor to Prince Harry, was not present.

The festival also introduced a new focus on sustainable fashion during “Style Wednesday,” stirring mixed reactions. Some critics labelled the move as a departure from tradition or an embrace of “wokeness,” while others saw it as a step towards inclusivity and addressing cost-of-living concerns by promoting sustainable and affordable fashion. Notably, former culture secretary Nadine Dorries voiced concerns about the potential for offense due to these changes.

On the racing front, trainer Nicky Henderson experienced setbacks with the withdrawal of several horses due to health issues. Despite this, there was anticipation for strong performances, highlighted by Luccia’s third-place finish, though the performance of Doddiethegreat fell short of expectations.

The Cheltenham Festival’s integration of fashion and sustainability themes alongside its traditional horse racing focus underscored a modern approach to the event, sparking debate and highlighting varying perspectives on tradition and inclusivity.