According to the good people from the AFP, Royal Ascot is an "annual British parade of horses, hats and high society." It sounds like fun to us! And what a good excuse to get crazy with fashion!

But, there are extremely strict dress codes. As with the Kentucky Derby in the U.S. the Royal Ascot's popularity has grown immensely and now more people than ever are attending. So the event organizers have had to tighten up rules and regulations on what can and cannot be worn.



In the past the normal (read non-blue blood) people have made spectacles of themselves trying to dress nutty enough that they'll be put on camera. But, that won't be allowed to happen anymore.

Here is just a bit of the dress code for women:

• Formal day dress with a hat or substantial fascinator.
• Off the shoulder, halter neck, spaghetti straps and dresses with a strap of less than one inch and/or mini skirts are considered unsuitable.
  
• Midriffs must be covered and trouser suits must be full length and of matching material and colour.

But, people still managed to dress outside the box and wear awesome funky hats. Browse through the gallery to check out fashion that looks like it came straight from a Dr. Seuss story!