Hat’s at the ready, ladies, Ascot is just around the corner! The swankiest event on the social calendar sees Britain’s upper crust heading out for a day at the races – but it’s not just about the horses. At Ladies Day all bets are off as to who will cross the fashion finish line, with some amazing outfits on show!

But even if you can’t mingle with the royals in the Royal Enclosure, you can still have a VIP day out at Royal Ascot, with the chiconomise guide to doing the event for less:

Tickets

If you’re not about to marry Prince Harry, there are two types of tickets for mere mortals to buy – Grandstand and Silver Ring.

Grandstand tickets are pricier, and for the extra money you’ll get access to Grandstand seating, viewing areas on the lawn, the Parade and pre-Parade ring, and a chance to watch the Royal Procession.

Silver Ring tickets have no formal dress code, but you’ll still get access to over 2,000 seats to watch the race, live entertainment and plenty of viewing areas to watch the races and Royal procession. So go Silver Ring for a more informal day out.

The best way to cut down on ticket cost? Book your tickets online well in advance – one to remember for next year!

Getting There

You could splash out on a stretch limo, but we reckon it’s a lot more fun to go by train. Ascot Railway Station is just a short walk from the racecourse and is served by trains from London Waterloo, Reading and Guildford. What the train lacks in glamour, it more than makes up in atmosphere – you’ll be sharing a carriage with your fellow race-goers, ideal for scoping out everyone’s outfits!

What to Wear

Dressing up for Ascot is half the fun, but don’t panic about the super-strict dress code. Ladies in the Grandstand are only encouraged to dress smartly and wear hats, and in the Silver Ring, there is no formal dress code, but remember, no flesh baring tops allowed!

A simple shift or fifties style sundress (with thick straps) is perfect for Ascot. Top it all off with a tailored jacket, and keep things fresh with a pair of statement heels or costume jewellery. We’ll be heading to Hobbs for their Roman-Holiday inspired frocks, but the high street is awash with cute shifts in pastel shades. Think Jackie O, or Carla Bruni and you’ll give Kate Middleton a run for her money.

As for hats, the bespoke creations you see on TV cost upwards of £300, so try Debenhams and M&S for surprisingly glamorous headgear.

For a cheaper alternative to a hat, try a fascinator clipped into your hair – lavish hair accessories are big news this season, so you’ll be able to find loads on the high street.

Food and Drink

To keep looking fabulous, you’ll need to refuel, but the restaurants and bars at Ascot can get pretty pricey. Why not pack a picnic and have just outside the grounds before going in? You can make a delicious afternoon tea with some freshly baked scones, a punnet of strawberries and a few bottles of Cava.

If you don’t want to haul a picnic hamper around, buy pre-packaged salads and bread, disposable plates and cutlery, and bring in a large carrier bag.