As the Royal Ascot season has begun, the hats are back again for a moment as a centrepiece of attention. Sadly enough, a grand format of the attire that set a golden age of the Royal Ascot had been narrowed down to the mere necessity, required by the dress code of this famous venue. As a reminder of the bygone glamour, a hallmark of this racecourse, we present you the set of caps of Royal Ascot costumes from "My Fair Lady" (starring Audrey Hepburn), brilliantly designed by Cecil Beaton, as a tribute to the times when fashion was larger than life.
The Royal Ascot is one of Europe's most famous race meetings, and dates back to 1711 when it was founded by Queen Anne. Every year Royal Ascot is attended by members of the British Royal Family, arriving each day in a horse-drawn carriage with the Royal procession taking place at the start of each race day and the raising of the Queen's Royal Standard. It is a major event in the British social calendar, and press coverage of the attendees and what they are wearing often exceeds coverage of the actual racing. The dress code is strictly enforced. For women, only a day dress with a hat is acceptable, with rules applying to the length and style of the dress. In addition, women must not show bare midriffs or shoulders. For men, black or grey morning dress with top hat is required.
"How do you do?"
An original concept art of the set design and costumes from the movie.
