Morning dress for women: what to wear
An elegant knee- or calf-length dress + a hat or fascinator + gloves.
Formal daytime weddings, Royal Ascot, royal events. Until 6 pm.
- When
- Daytime (until 6 pm)
- Trousers for women
- Depends
- Jeans
- No
- Sneakers
- No
Three outfit ideas
Wedding guest
A pastel silk dress below the knee, a matching jacket, a wide-brim hat and mid-heel pumps.
Ascot
A floral midi dress, a hat with a base of at least 10 cm (Royal Enclosure rule), gloves and a handbag.
Tailored
A pale grey skirt suit, a silk blouse, a fascinator and pearl earrings.
What to wear
- A day dress or tailored suit covering the shoulders
- A hat – required at Ascot
Shoes
Closed court shoes with a medium heel.
Accessories
A handbag, pearls, light gloves.
What to avoid
- Evening gowns and sequins by day
Colours
Pastels and light colours for women, grey and black for men.
In summer
In summer the waistcoat can be lighter; for women, linen-silk blends and a straw hat.
In winter
In winter men wear a darker coat and overcoat; women a wool suit and a felt hat.
Details that make the difference
- Hem the gown for your actual shoes: a long dress should just graze the floor in the heels you'll wear.
- Under silk and satin wear seamless, skin-tone underwear: these fabrics show every line.
- Check that your clutch fits a phone, lipstick and keys before the night.
- Bring a wrap or stole – halls get cool and the trip home at night is cold.
About morning dress
The most formal daytime dress: a morning coat for men, an elegant dress and hat for women. Morning dress began in 19th-century England as riding wear – the coat's front was cut away so it sat well in the saddle. Over time it became the most formal daytime dress, and it still is, especially at British weddings and Royal Ascot.
Black tie for women
A floor-length evening gown + elegant heels + a small clutch.
Other codes for women
Frequently asked
01Morning dress: can women wear trousers?
It depends on the event: a luxurious trouser suit is often accepted, but the classic choice is a dress.
02Morning dress: are jeans OK?
No – jeans are too casual for this code; choose tailored trousers.
03Morning dress: are sneakers OK?
No – choose leather shoes.
04Is morning dress worn outside the UK?
Rarely – mainly at very formal weddings and diplomatic events. Elsewhere a dark suit takes its place.