What to wear: the Henley Royal Regatta

29 June 2011


Running from Wednesday 29th June to Sunday 3rd July, the Henley Royal Regatta ranks high on the social calendar. With a dress code as competitive as the rowing, harrods.com is here to help you find a look that suits.

The ultra-exclusive Stewards' Enclosure stipulates that gentlemen don lounge suits or blazers with flannels, finished with the all-important tie or cravat. Ladies can follow their lead in timelessly stylish attire. Milly's sleeveless dress in a statement aztec print will turn heads for all the right reasons, whilst remaining dress code-appropriate with a skirt length below the knee.

The logistics of messing about on the river demands a sensible heel, but counteract conservatism with a pop of colour - Rupert Sanderson's Gaynor sandal fits the bill. As far as finishing touches go, headwear is essential for a day in the sun, and Melissa Odabash's panama sun hat adds a glamorous edge to any outfit.

If the Stewards' Enclosure sounds too strict, the Regatta Enclosure is open to non-members, and its sartorial demands are far less formal. Try adopting a vintage look for the day and make like 1949 in a striped Gant blazer and crisp white Ralph Lauren shorts. For ladies, match your man in a floral sundress, or feminine shorts for a modern take on the ladylike trend.

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