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Oliver Brown's Official Top Hat Guide for Royal Ascot

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For more than 250 years, Royal Ascot has been an eagerly anticipated event and a spectacle of high-society British fashion. When it comes to formal wear, morning dress is a must for gentlemen attending the Royal Enclosure. And what better way to complete the look than with a top hat?

Let's dive into the history of top hats at Royal Ascot, how to style them, and the difference between antique top hats and new ones.

Discover the world’s largest collection of top hats at Oliver Brown.

The Essentials of Top Hats

In the 19th century, top hats became the quintessential accessory for the well-dressed gentleman. This trend continued through the 20th century, and the top hat remains a timeless addition to formalwear.

Top hats come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. When it comes to Royal Ascot, the most popular style is the black silk top hat, with a rounded or flat top, depending on personal preference. The size should be proportional to the wearer's head and body, with a standard height of approximately 5.5 inches. A top hat should always be worn straight and not tilted.

Styling Your Top Hat

When it comes to styling a top hat, the rest of the outfit should follow the traditional morning dress code. This includes a black or grey morning coat, grey trousers, a white shirt, a waistcoat, and black oxford shoes. To complete the look, a gentleman can add a silk tie or cravat, a pocket square, and a boutonniere.

Top Tip: Measure the circumference of your head an inch above the ears to determine your correct hat size.

Buy or Hire?

There are two ways to acquire your perfect top hat: purchase or hire. At Oliver Brown, we offer both options to suit your needs.

For those purchasing, we offer:

  • New Top Hats crafted from high‑quality Melusine or wool.
  • Antique Silk Top Hats sourced from the largest collection in the world

Antique top hats are highly sought-after for their authenticity and charm. Made from silk that is no longer produced due to the original looms being defunct, they offer a classic, irreplaceable look. Please note: antique hats in larger sizes are rare and may command a premium.

Whether you’re hiring or buying, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit.

Perfect Your Ascot Outfit With A Top Hat from Oliver Brown 

A top hat is the ultimate finishing touch to your Royal Ascot attire. At Oliver Brown, we offer a curated range of elegant options for purchase or hire - perfect for adding a refined finishing flourish to your race day look.

Don’t miss the chance to make a lasting impression at Royal Ascot 2025. Discover our luxury formalwear and elevate your style for the season’s most stylish event.

Shop our Collection of Top Hats

Choosing a Top Hat

Not sure where to start? Explore our expert guide to choosing the perfect top hat — from understanding head sizes to selecting a shape that best complements your look.

Contact our team to enquire or visit us in-store.

Top Hat Care

Ensure your top hat stays in perfect condition between occasions. Explore our care tips to keep it looking its best for years to come.

Contact our team to enquire, or visit us in store for a personal fitting.

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