What to Wear to Cheltenham Festival, with Fashion Ambassador Frankie Herbert

       

The Festival™ Presented by Magners, one of the premier events in the British racing calendar, has announced model Frankie Herbert as its first ever Fashion Ambassador for 2020.

Having graced the catwalks for brands from Richard Quinn to Dolce & Gabbana, the model and graphic designer, 24, has horseracing in her blood: her father, Harry Herbert, runs Highclere Thoroughbred Racing, while her grandfather, the 7th Earl Carnarvon, was for many years the Queen’s racing manager.

‘I have grown up with horseracing so being able to mix it with my modelling career is a dream come true,’ she enthused. ‘We had a great day shooting at the racecourse – I can’t wait to come back when it’s full in March!’

Stylist Sarah Kate Byrne used a mixture of designer and high-street brands to create four looks for the shoot, photographed at iconic locations on the world-famous course, including the finish post and the Princess Royal Stand.

‘Layers are absolutely essential,’ says Sarah Kate, who recommends the Uniqlo Heattech range for keeping warm under your festival finery. As are impeccable accessories – hats play just as much a functional role as a fashionable one. Go for a classic trilby or fedora, or make a statement with magnificent millinery by Laura Cathcart or Jane Taylor, which can take you into a spring wedding. Knee-high or ankle boots – check out Keith Scarrott and Emmy London – and gloves (or hand warmers) will also help stave off chilly temperatures.

Any advice for if you still find yourself underdressed? ‘Head straight for the hot toddy tent!’

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For fool-proof Cheltenham dressing, Frankie likes the ease of a beautiful vintage midi dress, or a dress by fashion-pack favourite Alessandra Rich under a long warm coat, paired with classic, low-heel Manolo Blahniks. Not one to shy away from bold sartorial statements, she also loves colourful power suits by The Deck, a bespoke women’s tailoring company founded by regular racing attendee Daisy Knatchbull.

Sarah Kate advises to choose a colour and fabric that suits you, rather than trying to exactly match your outfit to the occasion. ‘There is a very good reason for the sea of woollens and tweeds at Cheltenham as the wind can be sharp, but that doesn’t mean you have to go for typical greens and browns.’

‘I’d also say rent your outfit,’ adds Frankie. ‘You can get some incredible pieces and ones you would not necessarily buy, it’s more affordable and sustainable – platforms like HURR are great.’

Frankie will be in attendance on Day Two of Cheltenham, which in 2020 is getting an update with the opening of The Park, a brand-new enclosure hosting DJ performances, with a Ferris wheel and Magners bar.

Cheltenham Festival 2020 is held from 10 – 13 March. Tickets for all four days are available to purchase at thejockeyclub.co.uk, or by calling 0344 5793003

 

MORE STYLE:

Guide to Sustainable Style in London / Great British Brands by C&TH / What to Pack for a Beach Break 

The Cheltenham Festival Style Guide

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