With Ascot’s BetMGM Autumn Racing Weekend taking place on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 October 2026, men heading to the Berkshire racecourse may face a wardrobe dilemma as the weather shift from summer warmth to cooler autumn days. The weekend is a chance to dress for the races without relying on the lighter colours and fabrics often seen in summer. A darker suit can be lifted with a patterned tie or pocket square, while a textured blazer gives a simpler shirt and trousers more character. Although there is no official dress code, most attendees will dress smartly.
L-R Dark Rosewood Weave 3 Piece Suit , Navy Birdseye Suit & Harris Tweed Grey Herringbone Suit
Grant Durrell, Head of Design at British menswear retailer Dobell recommends choosing one detail that stands out and keeping the rest of the outfit understated. He says start with a jacket that works for a full day at the races, then building comfortable layers around it. “October is a good time to bring some texture into race day dressing,” said Grant. “A wool blazer or a suit in navy or brown feels right for the season without looking too heavy. The key is to choose an outfit you’ll still feel comfortable in as you’ll likely be outside for a most of the day”.
Choose a jacket you can wear all day – Navy works with most shirt and trouser combinations, while brown or muted green can bring more of an autumn feel. A full suit is another option for anyone who wants to dress up, but Grant suggests avoiding anything lightweight like Linen that feels better suited to June.
Leave room for a layer – A thin jumper under a blazer can add warmth and avoid that bulky look. Men who prefer a shirt and tie could take an overcoat for the journey and time spent outside. Checking the forecast before leaving matters more than committing to a particular autumn fabric or colour.
Think about the shoes before the photographs– Smart leather shoes or boots can finish an outfit well, provided they are comfortable enough for walking and standing throughout the day. Grant advises wearing them in beforehand and choosing a shoe that will feel secure if the ground is damp.
Grant advises: “If your jacket restricts your movement or your shoes become uncomfortable by lunchtime, it doesn’t matter how good the outfit looked when you left home.”
It’s also important to remember that the October meeting is separate from Royal Ascot in June, so visitors should not assume a morning suit is needed.
Guest article written by Dobell
Dobell is a British-designed menswear brand specialising in accessible formalwear for weddings, black-tie events, work and other special occasions. Founded in 2003, the company offers suits, tuxedos, shirts, footwear and accessories across an extensive range of sizes.
For more information, visit www.dobell.co.uk.
Images supplied by Dobell via pr agency Champions UK PLC
