Ascot weather in June is always unpredictable. Whether you’re planning a day out at Royal Ascot in June or just an evening out, choosing the right fabric for your elegant Ascot dress is key. It needs to be comfortable enough to wear all day and look great too.
Lightweight Silk Crepe
A great choice for a warm Ascot day would be to choose a lightweight fabric that drapes well such as Silk Crepe. Silk Crepe is a fantastic fabric as it travels well and does not crease as much as other lightweight cottons do. The fabric is also a great breather and will keep you cool on a warm summer’s day. It also holds its shape well throughout the day so you don’t look as though you have been wearing the dress all day.
Cotton-Blend Organza
Organza is great as it provides structure without weight to your dress and a cotton blend will prevent it from billowing in the wind. The weave of the fabric will also keep it crisp throughout the long afternoon ahead.
Lined Lace or Broderie Anglaise
A fully lined lace or broderie anglaise is the perfect garment for those changeable days, as the outer layer is of sufficient weight and formal enough for the Royal Enclosure, whilst the lining can be of a lighter or warmer construction to suit your needs.
Polyester Blends
High quality polyester blend fabrics are also suitable for very warm weather and for formal wear. However, do avoid fabrics with a shiny surface finish as these tend to look very cheap in the light. Instead, look for fabrics with a matt finish or with a texture that looks like it has been woven.
Finishes Worth Checking
Some fabrics are also colorfast or even shower resistant. If you want dresses in fabrics like these, this luxury ready-to-wear collection is a good place to start.
Choose a fabric that will deal with the weather for you, and then you can concentrate on your outfit for the day when you arrive at Ascot.
Fabrics for Any British Summer Event
Similar events to Ascot in the British summer, such as garden parties, outdoor weddings and festivals, need similar fabrics for sun, breeze and occasional rain. Silk crepe and good quality crepe blends are probably the safest choice as they breathe, travel well and recover from being sat in. Lined lace is a good choice for cooler days. If the event is mostly on grass, a midi length in a reasonably weighty fabric will perform better in windy conditions than a lightweight chiffon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dress fabrics crease the least?
Crepe (including wool crepe and good quality polyester crepe blends) is the best fabric to use for a dress that will hold its shape. Linen is a lovely option for relaxed occasions – it creases within the hour though.
What should you wear on a very hot day?
Opt for a breathable natural fibre or a good quality crepe blend and choose a looser cut to the dress or a sleeveless style with a light cover-up that can be removed.
What works if rain is forecast?
A fully lined dress in a heavier weight crepe or jacquard is the best choice as damp chiffon and silk satin mark and cling. Bring a compact umbrella and a light jacket.
Is crepe a good summer fabric?
Yes. It drapes well, does not cling and stays fairly cool, which is why so many occasion dresses use it.