Royal Ascot 2019: Day two attendees defy the rain in white dresses and HUGE hats

Royal Ascot 2019 started yesterday, with day two underway today. Guests looked elegant in white tones, with a large number of women opting for the summer shade. A number of unusual, gigantic hats were also on display, as is the custom at the event. The Queen and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall joined attendees today, with Her Majesty holding a clear plastic umbrella to stay protected against the showers.

Yesterday, the Royal Family were out in force for the races, with Kate Middleton, Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice, Zara Tindall, Princess Anne, Prince William, Prince Andrew, Prince Charles, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall and the Queen all in attendance.

There was some surprise as all of the royal women opted for a similar colour – blue.

The Duchess of Cambridge chose a pretty lace dress by Elie Saab, paired with a Philip Treacy hat. Her Majesty, meanwhile, wore a blue floral dress with a blue jacket over the top. 

A blue hat with large flowers and white gloves completed her look.

Zara Tindall, 38, also chose a floral dress, pairing it with a baby blue hat worn on top of her head. A pair of drop pearl earrings completed the look.

For the first day of Royal Ascot, guests stretched the dress code with slashed to the thigh dresses and tight fitting items.

Women have turned out in their finest attire for the event, not letting the grey weather stop them from showing off their style.

Supermodel Jodie Kidd led the attendees, opting for a white dress and multicoloured hat to stand out among the crowds, which was commissioned for her by Ladbrokes to pay tribute to the Queen, who is famed for her bright hats.

Bright colours looked chic against the grey skies, with guests opting for every colour of the rainbow.

What is the Royal Ascot dress code?

Known for being strictly implemented, the Royal Ascot dress code is one of the tightest in the racing world.

Royal Ascot produce a detailed guideline every year for guests to follow to ensure there are no style blunders.

The most stringent rules apply in the Royal Enclosure, with ladies having to wear dresses or skirts that fall just above the knee or longer.

Straps must be one inch or greater, with strapless, halter neck and spaghetti straps banned. Midriffs are also not allowed to be on display.

While trouser suits are allowed, they must be full length on the leg and matching material and colour.

Most importantly, hats must be worn, although headpieces with a solid four inch base are permitted. Fascinators are not allowed.

Men must wear black or grey morning dress which includes a waistcoat, tie, top hat and black shoes worn with socks.

This dress code is followed not only by guests but also by members of the Royal Family who attend.

The Queen Anne Enclosure and the Village Enclosure are slightly more relaxed, with fascinators allowed, and dresses or tops with thin straps permitted.