Dress Code Distractions.

So, what's on our mind these days when we should be working on our various assignments and studying for exams?

This (below). The dress code for the Royal Enclosure at this year's Royal Ascot. To fill you in, we applied for tickets through the Canadian High Commission to get on the nomination list for the Royal Ascot, and it looks like we've been put on the list. While we are quite excited (it will be S, our friend Gill, and I going - all Canadians), we have until mid June to put together a special outfit that follows these stipulations.

In the last few years they have tightened the dress code for the ladies, as it seems the hemlines were pushing their boundaries, as was the visible cleavage. 

Yes, (though S will disagree) I am THRILLED about the hat requirement. It should be noted that the fascinator is now 'out', so this year will be all about hats (there is a difference between a cocktail hat and a fascinator you know!). 

ROYAL ENCLOSURE 2013

The dress code set out below is designed to help racegoers dress appropriately for the occasion.

LADIES

Ladies are kindly reminded that formal daywear is a requirement in the Royal Enclosure, defined as follows:

• Dresses and skirts should be of modest length defined as falling just above the knee or longer.
• Dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or greater.
• Jackets and pashminas may be worn, but the dresses and tops underneath should still comply with the Royal Enclosure dress code.
• Trouser suits are welcome. They should be full length and of matching material and colour.
• Hats should be worn; a headpiece which has a base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative to a hat.

Ladies are kindly asked to note the following:

• Strapless, off the shoulder, halter neck and spaghetti straps are not permitted.
• Midriffs must be covered.
• Fascinators are no longer permitted; neither are headpieces which do not have a base covering a sufficient area of the head (4 inches / 10cm).

GENTLEMEN

Gentlemen are kindly reminded that it is a requirement to wear black or grey morning dress, which must include.

• A waistcoat and tie (no cravats)
• A black or grey top hat
• A gentleman may remove his hat within a restaurant, a private box, a private club or that facility’s terrace, balcony or garden. Hats may also be removed within any enclosed external seating area within the Royal Enclosure Garden. The customisation of top hats (with, for example, coloured ribbons or bands) is not permitted in the Royal Enclosure.
• Black shoes
  The ladies last year - that's a lot of knee Kate's showing don't you think?

  
  

  

  
  

  
  

  Now it's your turn. Help! Where does one get an affordable outfit for such an event? 

  
  

  also- I wouldn't mind being arm and arm with a 'top hat'. Any takers? *

  
  

  *minor detail, you'll have to sort out your own way in!