Royal Ascot gentlemen will be allowed to remove their ties on Friday for the first time in the event’s history, after the dress code was relaxed ahead of the hottest day this year.
While forecasters predicted temperatures would reach 87.8F (31C) on Friday, organizers also announced that spectators at all venues will be allowed to bring water and soft drinks for the first time to allow everyone to stay “safe and comfortable”.
Ascot is famous for its formal dress code – as much a staple of the prestigious meeting as its runners and riders – with male attendees typically required to wear morning suits, including top hats, waistcoats and ties.
Ladies should wear hats or headdresses, as well as “modest length” dresses and skirts.
However, with temperatures expected between 20°C and 30°C for most of Friday afternoon, the historic event took the rare step of relaxing its rules.
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