Let Knot Standard dress you for the races
The Dubai World Cup is the richest, glitziest horse race of the year. Fashion often outpaces hoofbeats when it comes to what’s talked about after the last horse crosses the finish line. A smart dress code is strictly enforced and with the crème de la crème of the world’s rich and famous in attendance, you want to look smart, professional and on top of your game. Here’s Knot Standard’s guide for men on dressing for the races.
- Start with a suit. You can probably get away with wearing a sport coat and trousers but why dress down for such a special day? Remember the grounds will be crawling with press and photographers and you don’t want to find yourself staring from the worst dressed column in the fashion pages next day. Look smart and polished in a custom made suit and be notice for your style and charm, not for looking sloppy or underdressed.
- Go for color but stay conservative. Definitely do not wear black. First of all, it’s the Dubai World Cup, not the Oscars. Secondly, texture and color add interest to an otherwise conservative look making you more camera-friendly. Choose a Prince of Wales check in charcoal or navy. Or don a tweed to add a bit of British sartorial sensibility.
- Wear a waistcoat (otherwise known as a vest). It will raise the formality of your suit by two notches and adds a layer of polish that looks great even if you have to remove your jacket. Don’t forget to leave the bottom button unbuttoned.
- Wear a tie. A darker suit requires a lighter tie. Purple or orange or burgundy will stand out without being overbearing. For a slightly quirky and vintage look, try a bowtie. Bowties are back in fashion and acceptable neckwear. Turn up the fashion quotient by pairing a polka dot bowtie with a striped pocket square in complementary colors.
- Don’t forget the pocket square. It should complement, not match your tie. If you go with a orange tie with a navy suit, wear a blue and white polka dot pocket square.
- Avoid French cuffs and cufflinks. You are at the races, not a Parisian café.
- No ascots or cravats. They look pretentious and anyway are prohibited at the Dubai World Cup.
- No jeans, sneakers or flip flops. Seriously, you aren’t going to the beach so why would you?
- Clean, polished and comfortable shoes. No scuffs or scratch marks. You may be on your feet for hours so find a pair that fit well.
- Choose one stand out accessory. Tie pin, pocket watch, aviators. Hit the right note of style with swag without being flamboyant or overstated.