Planning a day at the Sydney races and living it up at the Royal Randwick but unsure of what to wear? Are jeans okay? Should you be wearing headwear?

If this sounds like you, you’re in the right place. Let us give you the download on everything you need to know about racewear.

Sydney races

The Australian Turf Club (ATC) holds races year-round. So there’s always a good opportunity to dress to the nines and have fun. If you want to be part of the grander festivities, though, make sure you plan a visit during Sydney Spring Racing Carnival or Autumn Racing Carnival.

They’re the perfect avenue for self-expression through style (albeit with a little bit of guidance from the club). That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun though! You’re encouraged to go all-out — from top to bottom.

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What is the dress code for Randwick races?

There are different dress codes for different membership tiers at the ATC. The member areas tend to be a bit more traditional and formal while the dining areas and general admission areas are more lax and semi-casual.

The dress codes for Royal Randwick (depending on the tiers or areas) also apply to Rosehill Gardens, Canterbury Farm and Warwick Farm.

Here’s your download on what and what not to wear.

Members

Heading to the Royal Randwick (or the Rosehill Gardens) on a Saturday race day? Be guided on what to wear! 

Whether you’re a guest or member of a guest, you’re expected to follow the area’s dress code. 

For ladies, this means avoiding the following:

• Jeans or denims, shorts, playsuits and the like
• Denim jackets
• Garments that show off the midriff
• Torn, tattered or ripped clothing
• Leggings as pants
• Athleisure or athletic clothing (tracksuit tops, parkas, duffle coats)
• Joggers, trackers, sports shoes, thongs, slippers, gumboots and dilapidated footwear

Keep it classy and elegant! 

For gentlemen, the pieces to avoid are pretty similar to what’s prescribed for the ladies, with the addition of beanies and peaked caps and sportswear like jerseys and rugby tops. 

There are also requirements specifically for the gents. Make sure you wear these:

• Tailored pants
• A collared shirt with a tie
• A jacket, sports coat or a blazer

Note that jackets are optional during daylight savings but ties are a must. You’ll be asked to buy one from the Members Concierge if you don’t come in wearing one!

P.S. Guests from overseas can wear their country’s formal national wear. 

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Members Relaxed

Heading to a mid-week race (with the exception of Cup Day)? You may be happy to know that it’s a little bit more relaxed. Ladies going to the Royal Randwick, Rosehill Gardens, Canterbury Park and Warwick Farm are allowed to wear jeans — woot! — as long as they’re not ripped or tattered, untailored slacks and chinos.

Going to a mid-week meet at Canterbury Park and Warwick Farm specifically? If you love wearing dress shorts, you’re in luck! They’re totally okay to wear. Just make sure they’re not ripped. And remember that the rule is just for dress shorts, not sports shorts!

The gents have it a little bit more laid-back during these days and at these locations too. Pants, including jeans, as long as they’re tidy and neat are allowed. Chinos and untailored slacks are good to wear too. 

While jackets and ties are not required, they’re highly recommended. 

Dining Smart Casual

If you’re grabbing a bite at one of the Premium Dining areas at Royal Randwick, Rosehill Gardens, Canterbury Park and Warwick Farm on a mid-week or Saturday race, the general rule is to dress smart. 

What does that mean and what kind of dress is smart casual?

Think: Race-day appropriate but with heels being optional.

There are many options! For ladies, you can opt for a nice dress that doesn’t show the midriff or a sleek, tailored blouse paired with trousers or a skirt. For gentlemen, this means a tucked-in collared shirt and tie with trousers or slacks, finished off with dress shoes. 

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General Admission

For those heading to the general admission areas during mid-week and Saturday races, there is no formal dress code. But guests are asked to dress smart. 

For all areas and groups, here’s a must: A headpiece or a hat! 

The races are the only sporting event that encourages you to go all out with your look, especially from the top! 

Cap off your ensemble with a fascinator or headpiece that complements not just the look but also your personality.

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