#AscotStyle with Lisa Armstrong

In the run up to Royal Ascot, some weeks ago, we invited Lisa Armstrong, Fashion Editor at the Daily Telegraph to take over the @AscotInsider twitter feed and share her styling advice as well as answering any questions put to her.


Both on twitter and in her weekly column in the Saturday Magazine, Lisa spoke of millinery, how to avoid looking too ‘matchy-matchy’ and this season’s bold use of colour and print. Here is a round up of her style advice, ahead of Royal Ascot.




Hats, headpieces and fascinators:

Of headwear trends, Lisa believes that “where people may not previously have worn hats, many will sport headpieces (not to be confused with fascinators).”

In line with the new Royal Ascot dress code, fascinators are no longer allowed in the Royal Enclosure but headpieces with a diameter of 4 inches/10cm or more, as well as hats, are still welcome.

Lisa recommended milliner Bundle MacClaren for stunning head pieces and hats that are relatively inexpensive, but also commented on how brilliant the offering from Marks and Spencer’s is this year. Royal Ascot also has a longstanding affiliation with milliner Stephen Jones whose designs this season are, as always, exceptional.

Jackets, Coats and Coverups:

To avoid looking too ‘matchy-matchy’ and with a typical, unpredictable summer in mind, Lisa suggests a Chanel style jacket as a great cover up that will add a little texture to an outfit. She advised being wary of the length, as too long can look frumpy and too short may appear boxy. She suggests Zara, River Island and Malene Birger as having great high street options.

As well as jackets and pashmina’s Lisa sighted the summer coat with bracelet sleeves as an elegant way of keeping out the chill and again, introducing a little texture and perhaps some print.

Tailoring and Fit:

Believing that “fitted is better than loose” Lisa recommends having clothes bought from the high street tailored to fit if the shape is not quite right and belting more voluminous pieces at the waist.

Colour and Print:

A big trend this season are colour clashes, Lisa suggests being bold with colour and clashing in blocks – a fuchsia dress with an orange shoe. In terms of print, floral is always a quintessentially British but Lisa suggests tribal to be a modern and eye catching alternative.

Maxi Dresses:

Avoid maxi dresses is Lisa’s advise, they can be tricky - looking either too beachy or too much like evening wear.

Lisa’s Favorite Ascot Look:

A smart suit for a modern take on formal daywear dressing or a ‘50s midi prom dress with a cropped cashmere cardigan…“a playful alternative to the traditional suit.”