What to Wear to the Belmont Stakes: The Ultimate Guide to Achieving the Perfect Race Day Look

My friend, the Belmont Stakes in Elmont, New York is one of the biggest events in horse racing. As a home improvement expert with a passion for style, I want to provide you with an insider‘s guide to dressing fashionably for this iconic sporting event. Consider me your personal stylist, giving you tips and tricks for creating a polished, put-together Belmont Stakes outfit.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll cover everything from the roots of the race’s dress code traditions to specific outfit ideas tailored to your unique taste. With the right know-how, you can feel confident rocking a stylish, functional look perfect for a day at the track. Let‘s start from the top!

A Brief History of Belmont Stakes Style

To understand the culture around what to wear to the Belmont Stakes, it helps to look at the history.

The Belmont Stakes originated in 1867, making it the oldest of the Triple Crown races. It was named after financier and racing enthusiast August Belmont Sr. who helped found the Jockey Club that still operates Belmont Park today.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, attending horse races became a popular leisurely pastime among New York high society types. Ladies wore their Sunday best, including elaborate hats, gloves, and parasols. Well-dressed gentlemen donned smart suits, ties, and bowler hats.

Belmont Stakes became a see-and-be-seen event where the most fashionable New Yorkers flaunted their wealth and style. While fashion has evolved, that essence of prestige has stuck around.

Here are some key stats:

• Since 1952, over 100,000 spectators have attended each year
• In 2015, American Pharoah won, attracting a record crowd of 90,000
• The 2022 purse reached $1.5 million making it the third richest race in America

Suffice it to say, all eyes will be on you looking for Belmont inspiration!

What is Considered Appropriate Attire?

So how do you stand out while still fitting into Belmont’s high society atmosphere? Finding that balance between fashionable and functional is key.

The de facto dress code is “dressy casual.” You want an elevated look, but one that‘s comfortable for a full day outdoors.

Most women wear dresses, skirts, or nice pants paired with heels and statement hats. Gentlemen don the classic linen suit and fedora combo.

There are two main spectator areas, each with their own vibe:

The Clubhouse Code

The Clubhouse offers covered grandstands and premium interior suites. Dress code here skews more formal and fashion-forward.

You’ll see lots of suits, cocktail attire and elaborate hats. Ladies often wear dresses with big floral embellishments, wide-brimmed Kentucky Derby style hats, and heels.

The Grandstand Code

The majority of the 100,000+ spectators sit in the massive Belmont Park Grandstand. Dress here is more casual while still put-together.

Sundresses, polos, trousers, and summery accessories are perfect for the Grandstand. You‘ll fit right in with the sea of spectators.

Now let‘s get into specific outfit ideas tailored just for you!

Ideal Women‘s Outfits for the Belmont Stakes

Ladies set the tone for Belmont style, so take inspiration from the chic retro fashions of Audrey Hepburn and Jackie O for your race day attire.

Aim for ladylike silhouettes, feminine fabrics, bright colors, and bold accessories. Time to shop your closet!

Pretty Pastel Dresses

A cotton sundress in a sweet pastel instantly evokes Belmont elegance. Go for vintage inspired details like wrap styles, tie straps, or button fronts.

Floral and gingham prints also capture the Belmont aesthetic. Pair your dress with wedges or block heels for comfort and stability.

Chic Skirt and Blouse Combos

A skirt and blouse combo offers versatile styling options. Tuck a sleeveless silk shell into a high-waisted midi skirt for a retro vibe.

Try pairing a flowy chiffon blouse with a structured pencil skirt. Heels dress it up; flats keep it casual.

Dressy Jumpsuits and Wide Leg Pants

A linen or silk jumpsuit brings effortless polish. Show off the tailored cut with strappy heels.

For pants, wide leg silhouettes feel breezy and balanced. A cropped length shows off your shoes.

Stylish Outer Layers

Bring layers like a kimono jacket, silk shawl, or linen blazer in case temperatures drop. A cropped cardigan works with any neckline.

A silk scarf adds a refined touch wrapped around your shoulders or tied around your neck.

Statement Hats and Fascinators

When it comes to hats, go big! Statement brims, flower crowns, feather fascinators—anything eye-catching.

Frame your face with a wide brim hat tipped forward. Tie a scarf around a straw style for extra pizzazz.

Don‘t Forget the Accessories!

No race day outfit is complete without accessories:

• Jewelry: Hoop earrings, pearl necklaces, and wristlets provide polished accents.

• Handbags: Crossbody bags and clutches allow hands-free mobility.

• Shoes: Wedges, block heels, and strappy sandals balance style and comfort.

• Sunnies: Go for vintage inspired cat eye or oval frames.

And don‘t forget your sun protection essentials like hats, sunscreen, and UV blocking garments. Stay hydrated and comfortable!

Men‘s Race Day Fashion

Gentlemen, you‘ll fit right into the Belmont scene decked out in linen suits, fedoras, and other light layers.

Aim for a balance of tailored pieces with relaxed fabrics, classic colors, and menswear accessories. Time to step up your style game!

Dapper Button-Downs and Polos

A linen or chambray button-down brings a cool, casual vibe. Pop those collars!

Polos are perfect paired with tailored shorts or trousers. Look for breathable pique knits.

Lightweight Suiting

A linen, cotton, or seersucker suit exudes vintage Belmont flair. For more relaxed suiting, go for an unlined jacket.

Pair suits with loafers or oxfords. Suspenders and bow ties add old school personality.

Crisp Chinos and Pleated Trousers

Keep it classic with flat front chinos in neutral shades like tan, navy, or olive.

Pleated trousers in lightweight fabrics like linen feel distinctly retro. Show off your ankles for a modern twist.

Straw Hats and Caps

A straw boater or fedora is Belmont staple. ribbons. Look for natural woven fabrics.

A newsboy cap or panama hat also epitomizes the Belmont guy‘s style.

Menswear Accessories

Tie it all together with:

• Ties and scarves: knits and silk neckwear

• Shoes: loafers, bucks, and oxfords in leather or suede

• Shades: wayfarers, aviators, or clubmaster frames

• Jewelry: leather straps, cufflinks, pocket watches

And don‘t forget the sunscreen, hydration, and dress socks!

Creating Race Day Outfits From Your Own Closet

Don‘t want to buy a whole new wardrobe? Many go-to staples in your closet can be repurposed into stylish Belmont outfits with just a few key accessories.

For Women:

• White sundress + colorful scarf + straw hat

• Floral top + midi skirt + block heels

• Printed jumpsuit + kimono jacket + wedges

• Jean jacket + palazzo pants + panama hat

For Men:

• Oxford shirt + cropped trousers + loafers

• Chambray shirt + pleated shorts + fedora

• Polo shirt + linen blazer + suede bucks

• Printed button-down + chinos + wool cap

With lightweight layers, breathable fabrics, and strategic accessories, you can channel Belmont fashion on a budget.

Race Day Fashion Do‘s and Don‘ts

Follow these top tips for achieving a fashionable, functional Belmont Stakes look:

DO:

• Wear sun protective clothing and hats

• Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics

• Prioritize mobility and comfort

• Apply sunscreen regularly throughout the day

• Hydrate frequently

• Carry minimal essentials (cash, IDs, lip balm)

• Mind loose accessories around horses

DON‘T:

• Wear restrictive, binding clothing

• Choose long, trailing fabrics

• Opt for noisy bracelets or dangling jewelry

• Wear tall, thick heels that could get stuck

• Bring large tote bags, chairs, or stools

Keeping these do‘s and don‘ts in mind will ensure you look AND feel your best on race day!

Final Thoughts on Belmont Stakes Fashion

Looking polished at the Belmont Stakes is all about embracing the event‘s unique style history. Ladies, don your bold hats and sundresses; gents, keep it dapper in linen suits.

Most importantly, let your outfit reflect your own personality while honoring the tradition of this treasured New York horse race. Whether you take inspiration from the 1920s or prefer a modern twist, dressing fashionably for Belmont is all about having fun with it!

With this detailed guide in hand, you can feel confident crafting a head-turning yet functional Belmont Stakes look. Trust me, all eyes will be on you—for all the right reasons!

Now get out there and stop the show, my friend! I hope these tips help you dress to impress at this iconic event. Let me know if you need any other style advice for looking and feeling your best!