Nowadays the event attracts 300,000 people to see 30 races spread over five glorious days. Aside from the racing, punters come to people watch, trying to catch a glimpse of the Royals. In 1825, King George IV introduced the Royal Procession when the royal family arrives in the parade ground in a succession of Landau carriages, then travel down the track to the Royal Enclosure.  Given that this is the Queen’s own race, she decides the dress code – which means fancy frocks and stylish hats. Inspired by her Majesty’s sense of occasion, here’s our edit of the best summer dresses.

Although the camera lenses are fixed on the parade ground, the most exclusive spot at Ascot is the parking lot of the Royal Enclosure, which has a 100-year waiting list! Before the race, its full of aristocracy enjoying a good old-fashioned picnic, for which Aspesi’s white linen dress is perfect.

The terraces at Royal Ascot are divided into four enclosures. The Village Enclosure is the most casual with bars and concerts going on into the night. Maliparmi’s relaxed prints will see you through from day to night.

The Queen first attended Royal Ascot in 1945 at the age of 19. When she was young, she used to gallop down Ascot racecourse early in the morning before racing started. Since then, as an owner, she's enjoyed 23 winners. Aspesi’s youthful, tiered dress is certainly a winning colour. 

Royal Ascot sees some of the world’s finest horses. In fact, many Ascot winners, such as Frankel and Black Caviar, have become household names. Cut a swathe through the crowd to the betting kiosks with Aspesi’s attention-grabbing print dress and put some money on the next winner.

Named after the founding monarch, the Queen Anne Enclosure is the centre of the action, complete with a garden club for tea and raised terraces overlooking the final furlongs. Stand out from the crowd in Aspesi’s red linen dress.

Before each race, jockeys are weighed in the weighing room. Race rules dictate the minimum riding weight for Flat Racing is 8 stone (50.8 kilos). This is to ensure the jockey’s well-being. Samantha Sung’s beautifully cut dresses lend everyone a similarly svelte figure.

The Royal Enclosure is the most exclusive venue. Originally created in 1807 only for guests of King George III, there’s a strict dress code and everyone has to wear a name tag, even the royals. Aspesi’s silk jacquard dress with rich, golden embroidery will help you fit in perfectly.

Royal Ascot’s oldest race is The Gold Cup, which was inaugurated in 1807. To this day winners receive a gold trophy, created by Garrard, which is theirs to take home. Accessorise with Tess van Ghert’s new gold-rimmed sunglasses and earrings to match.