Glorious Goodwood: Our Ultimate Style Guide For Men
The Qatar Goodwood Festival, widely recognised as Glorious Goodwood, traces back to 1801 when the Duke of Richmond, supported by the Goodwood Hunt, first organised a private three-day race meeting - eventually evolving into the five day event we know today. It officially became the ‘Qatar Goodwood Festival’ in 2015 when the Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club started sponsoring the event.
Image from Unsplash
An event steeped in tradition and the thrill of equestrian sports, the Qatar Goodwood Festival is synonymous with British style and summer sophistication. In 1906, King Edward VII set the tone by attending in a Panama hat and linen suit - an iconic look that remains closely linked to Goodwood’s dress code to this day.
Before you visit, do be sure to check Goodwood’s official dress code on their website here.
There are three different enclosures; The Richmond Enclosure, The Gordon Enclosure and The Lennox Enclosure. The Richmond is the most formal, with a dress code that requires gentlemen to wear a suit jacket, a long sleeved collared shirt with a tie, and full-length trousers. Sportswear and fancy dress are not permitted in this enclosure.
Image from Goodwood's Official Website
Throughout the festival, guests in the Gordon Enclosure and all hospitality areas - including The Charlton Hunt, The Long View, Sussex Boxes, March Boxes, The Social Suites, Double Trigger, The Horsewalk, The Lookout, The Secret Garden and The Final Furlong - are expected to follow the Richmond Enclosure’s lead by dressing smartly and elegantly.
With the festival taking place in the heat of summer, we recommend one of our linen suits for these areas. Our Lombard Suit in Chambray Blue is our recommended showstopper for Goodwood - double-breasted and crafted from crease-resistant Drago Wool Linen, it's the epitome of sophistication for a day at the races in one of these enclosures.
Alternatively, our Eaton Jackets in Stone, Navy or Sage Green Linen make an excellent choice, whether worn with the matching linen trousers or styled as separates. Pair this with one of our City Shirts, or, if the weather is particularly warm, opt for one of our Amalfi Linen Shirts for added breathability and comfort. Don’t forget a Classic Panama Hat to finish your outfit in true Goodwood style.
Complete your outfit with subtle racing-inspired accessories, such as our Pure Silk Horse Racing Tie and Horse Racing Pocket Square. Above all, aim for understated elegance, steering clear of loud patterns and neon colours to maintain a classic, polished appearance that perfectly suits the occasion.
The Lennox Enclosure offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with no dress code. Guests here are encouraged to wear comfortable, casual clothing. Our Chino Shorts in Navy Cotton paired with a Pointelle Polo Shirt would make an ideal combination - laid-back yet refined for a day at the races. If it’s a bit cooler, our Moleskin Jeans are another great choice. Finish the look with our new Penny Loafers, made in collaboration with Joseph Cheaney.
We encourage you to embrace a refined summer palette for Goodwood that celebrates British style. Think greens and blues, and lighter shades of stone and cream. Linens and lightweight wools will keep you cool in the summer sun, though it’s wise to be prepared for the occasional British rain shower. We offer a wide selection of umbrellas crafted by the oldest continually-operating umbrella makers in Britain, designed to last a lifetime.
Whichever enclosure you’re attending, dressing well is key to enjoying Goodwood in true British style. We’re here to help you look your best for the occasion - from our impeccably tailored linen suits to the finishing touches.
Visit us in one of our stores where our expert team are on hand to assist with all of your Goodwood needs, or browse the full collection online.
