In order to make the most out of a glamorous day at the races, one must wear comfortable shoes.
This most likely won’t spark joy among fashion veterans. Clunky wedges spring to mind, complete with dated raffia detailing. Although a classic choice, it’s time to broaden our shoewear horizons.
Thankfully, comfort doesn’t mean one must sacrifice style. Take the ongoing captivation with kitten heels for example. Cute, kitsch designs that subtly elevate the foot help the wearer avoid prolonged discomfort and ankle stress. Last month, New Look reported a 65 per cent increase in searches for the term ‘kitten heels’ in a single week alone, with nearly 30,000 people searching for kitten heels each month in the UK.
Likewise, silver heels are making a comeback just in time for race season, with Boohoo reporting that Google searches for the term have increased by 40 per cent across the US in the last 90 days. There are a plethora of metallic heels and ballet flats up for grabs - with the latter category providing a welcome alternative to wearing heels at all.
It’s important to note racecourses enforce different dress codes. What you wear to Ascot depends on which enclosure you’re in. For example, in the Royal Enclosure, ladies must wear a dress or skirt falling just above the knee or longer, shoulder straps that are a minimum width of 1 inch and a pashmina or jacket. Hats must be worn and if one opts for a suit, it must be of a matching material and colour. However, Chelmsford City requests that you do not turn up in beach flip-flops or backless sandals and Goodwood advises that you leave your stiletto heels at home, as the uneven ground can be tricky to walk on.
In terms of style, the races are the prime opportunity to have fun. Think colourful mules, butterfly detailing, slingback silhouettes and texture. As long as it coordinates with your dress, suit, or choice of headwear, you can toy with various designs for a day spent soaking up the British summertime.
Not sure how to expand your search? We’ve rounded up the best shoes for the races. Shop the edit below.
Gucci Slingbacks with Horsebit
Invest in some heritage heels thanks to Gucci’s dreamy cream slingbacks. A buttery white leather construction, a block heel and the house’s iconic equine-themed insignia offer up a classic design to cherish forever. Available up to UK9.
Buy now £660.00, Gucci
Anthropologie Maya Buckle Slingback Kitten Heels
Radiate summer-ready sophistication. Anthropologie’s Maya kitten heels come in a blissful butter yellow hue which is married with Y2K detailing such as studded buckles, a point-toe silhouette and a sleek slingback design.
Buy now £110.00, Anthropologie
Mango Slingback Ballerina
Block heels are the trick to race day attire. Ensure you never start sinking into the ground with a sturdy heel paired with an on-trend ballet pump style to establish your It-girl status in the stands.
Buy now £49.99, Mango
Prada Fern Green Satin Mules
Invest in a pair of statement shoes to stand the test of time. Prada’s exquisite lime green satin mules are set to turn heads. A low heel is elevated by a chic square toe and a minimalist design that will surely hog the limelight.
Buy now £820.00, Harrods
Loeffler Randall Leonie Ballet Flats
The prettiest pair of ballet flats we ever did see, these powder blue pumps exude fairytale fantasy.
Buy now £215.00, Net-A-Porter
Maje Pointed Leather Pumps
The perfect pink kitten heel, Maje’s ultra-feminine offering is a serious serving of eye candy. A solid leather construction is paired with a spring-like pastel pink hue, dainty gold hardware and an elegant point-toe.
Buy now £230.30, Maje
Ganni Women’s Smocked Satin Mules
Slip into comfort with Ganni’s heeled mules for race-day spectating. A far more foot-friendly option to towering stilettos, the sumptuous satin pumps offer a cushioned step in a cute candy colourway. Also available in gold and red.
Buy now £148.00, Coggles
Reiss Freya Leather Slingback Ballerina Flats
A hybrid design between pump and flat, Reiss’ Freya slingbacks can be worn all summer long. Whether you’re off to the races or chic coffee date, the futuristic silver flats will command attention with their almond cut, strap detailing and gently raised heels. Wear yours with jeans or your favourite summer frock.
Buy now £158.00, Reiss
Rixo Enza Leather Wedges
Rixo’s decadent spin on the race-day design is near-irresistable. A patent gold finish adorns the chunky shoes, which come complete with easy-to-walk-in wedge heels and disco-ready strap detailing.
Buy now £245.00, Rixo
Bobbies Anya Shoes
Dance the night away in a pair of Bobbbies’ Anya heels. The party-ready pumps feature a stylish square toe, elevated by a midnight hue and delicate strap detailing.
Buy now £205.00, Bobbies
IZIE Port Sandal
A London-based brand founded in 2024 by ex-Parsons alumni Isabella Bowie, IZIE is one to watch. The label’s Port Sandals come in a range of tempting tones and promise cushioning comfort to see you through to the early hours.
Buy now £530.00, IZIE
