What to Wear to Cheltenham Festival, with Fashion Ambassador Frankie Herbert
Style tips for fool-proof racing fashion...
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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!’
Shopping: The C&TH Luxury List
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
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The Cheltenham Festival Style Guide
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Laura Cathcart Harris Tweed Baker boy hat, £375
Magee brown willow checked Donegal tweed jacket, £469 and tweed trousers, £235
Sarah Badeni lurex pussy bow blouse, £290
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Jane Taylor Millinery Spiral Moon hat, £1400
Vintage houndstooth cape, £60
Zara purple wool polo neck, £19.99
The Deck purple velvet trousers, from £650
Jennifer Gibson Jewellery vintage earrings, £165
Emmy London Foxglove Cinnamon ankle boots, £495
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Emmy London Foxglove Cinnamon ankle boots
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Holland Cooper Marlborough Trench Coat in Heather Tartan, £849
Holland Cooper high waisted peg trousers, £229
Zara green silk blouse, £39.99
Renné T Bar hoop earrings, £160
Keith Scarrott Neomi boots in khaki, £229
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Laura Cathcart black felt Stella pillbox, £445
Eponine London Sea of Tranquility crepe jumpsuit, £2600
Jennifer Gibson Jewellery vintage earrings, £95
Keith Scarrott Quinto boots, £299
Luisa Spagnoli gold leather sash belt, £90