Celebs step out in monochrome glam for first day of posh Boodles May Festival at sunny Chester Races
GLAMOROUS Chester race attendees have pulled out all the stops with their head-turning looks at Ladies Day.
Leading the fashion pack is Love Island’s Gemma Owen, 22, who is dressed in an elegant white midi dress and sleek sunglasses.
Other famous faces at Chester Racecourse today are TV presenter Jenny Powell and English football coach Robbie Fowler.
Making the most of the glorious weather, many female guests have stepped out in their most stylish dresses and sky-high stilettos for the occasion.
Some have been donned theatrical headpieces in a bid to stand out from the crowd.
With the balmy weather, many women have opted for shoulder-bearing or mini dresses.
As the thrilling races kicked off, revellers got started on the bubbly, popping champagne and prosecco in the stands.
Ladies Day at the three-day Boodles May Festival is one of the most glamorous days in the Chester racing calendar.
According to the website: “This is your chance to unleash your true fashionista and celebrate Ladies Day in true Chester style with fascinators, frocks and fedoras around every corner.”
Chic attendees also have the chance to be crowned as the most stylish guest in the Best Dressed Competition.
Typically Chester has a less strict dress code than racing events such as Royal Ascot, but that hasn’t stopped them pulling out all the stops.
Each stand at Chester Racecourse adheres to a specific dress code policy and those who don’t uphold it may be refused access to the event.
The 2025 style guide states that if you’re in the County Long Room, Winning Post, The Garden, Hospitality Areas and Chester Members area, the dress code is ‘strictly smart’.
Attendees are encouraged to do cocktail dresses, sleek power suits, shiny shoes and statement fascinators.
The website states: “It’s time to get fancy! A raceday outfit is like no other so we want to you to dress to impress.
“You’ll ooze classic sophistication and shine like the fashionista you are.”
The Tattersalls enclosure is more of a smart casual stand said you can either wear a polo shirt or collared shirt, smart jeans (not ripped), trousers, chinos, or a smart dress.
The most casual stand is The Roodee, where relaxed summer dresses, shorts and T-shirts and sunglasses are welcomed.
Why has Ladies Day been scrapped at Cheltenham Festival?
CHELTENHAM'S Ladies Day event on day two of racing is now known as Style Wednesday - and it's open to both men and women.
A Cheltenham Racecourse spokesperson said in 2024: “This year we re-launched day two of The Festival as Style Wednesday to celebrate ‘fast horses, slow fashion’, encouraging racegoers to make more sustainable fashion choices, showcasing their unique and personal style, and to share the stories behind their amazing outfits with friends, family and on social media.
“This includes re-wearing outfits they already have in their wardrobes, purchasing timeless garments to wear again and again and also buying from retailers specialising in pre-loved clothing.”