The Cheltenham Festival, one of the world's most competitive racing meets, concluded its four-day event in Gloucestershire with fashion proving to be just as thrilling as the races. Attendees arrived dressed to impress, showcasing an array of luxurious fur-lined coats, classic fedoras, and an abundance of elegant tweed.
Jade Holland Cooper Sets the Standard
Fashion designer Jade Holland Cooper, founder of the multi-million-pound luxury brand Holland Cooper, was a standout presence throughout the festival. Cooper epitomised style with her floor-length tweed ensembles, dark-toned tartan patterns, and bold statement hats. Her signature look, featuring standout coats, elegant knee-high boots, and exquisite headwear, perfectly reflects her brand's country-urban aesthetic.
While Holland Cooper's designs resonate strongly with the traditional racing crowd, the brand also boasts an impressive celebrity following. Notable fans include Claudia Winkleman, Mary Berry, Jodie Kidd, and even royalty. The Princess of Wales has been spotted wearing the brand's double-breasted coat in a distinctive blue and green Black Watch tartan at multiple public engagements.
Diverse Fashion Statements
Beyond the fashion elite, numerous attendees demonstrated exceptional race day style. A trio of racegoers captured attention with flamboyant ensembles featuring bright block colours, while influencers Grace & Grace embraced a Peaky Blinders-inspired look with coordinated tweed outfits, baker boy hats, and crisp white shirts.
Tartan emerged as a major trend this year, with one particularly memorable attendee sporting a vibrant pink and green plaid ensemble complete with a matching feathered hat. This feather-adorned style found another prominent wearer in Carole Middleton, mother of the Princess of Wales, who embodied race day chic on the festival's second day.
Royal Family Fashion Highlights
Carole Middleton's elegant appearance featured a longline coat from Really Wild Clothing, complemented by brown suede boots from Russell and Bromley and a Hermès Birkin bag. The crowning accessory was her £115 navy Suffolk Fedora, a hat also owned by her daughter Kate. This timeless piece, made from soft wool felt and adorned with natural feathers, is designed for all-day comfort and multi-seasonal wear.
Princess Anne's daughter, Zara Tindall, further elevated the royal family's fashion presence. On the opening day, the 44-year-old wore a sophisticated navy wool skirt suit by The Fold, paired with knee-high navy suede boots from Fairfax & Favor and a peacock-green Aspinal of London bag. Her ensemble was accentuated by a striking teal Juliette Botterill hat with felt foliage, an emerald Really Wild blouse, and elegant accessories including Aspinal of London gloves and Monc quartz sunglasses.
Weather Challenges and Triumphs
The festival's third day presented challenging conditions with rain and wind testing attendees' resolve. Umbrellas became essential accessories as racegoers attempted to protect their elaborate headgear and maintain their stylish appearances. Some braved the elements in thigh-skimming outfits and heeled boots, while others struggled with wind-blown brollies and wayward hats.
Fortunately, the final day offered improved weather, allowing fashion to truly shine. Among Friday's standout looks was former Love Island star Gemma Owen, daughter of footballer Michael Owen, who looked typically chic in a coordinated all-maroon outfit.
Patterns and Personalities
The festival grounds displayed a rich tapestry of patterns including houndstooth, plaid, and various tartan designs, alongside numerous tailored suits. EastEnders and I'm A Celebrity star Shona McGarty brought glamour with a bold blue ensemble and complementary fascinator, while another attendee made a statement with a hot pink hat paired with a cerulean blue coat.
From British fashion designers to everyday racegoers, the 2026 Cheltenham Festival demonstrated that fashion remains an integral and celebrated aspect of this prestigious sporting event, with style choices ranging from traditional tweed to contemporary bold colours and everything in between.
