Hats off to Ascot ladies enjoying day at the races

Fashion: Headgear outshines horses

The weird, wonderful and wild were on show at Royal Ascot as female racegoers put on a riotous hat display to mark Ladies’ Day.

From headgear in the shape of a picnic hamper, complete with champagne and strawberries, to an aviary full of parakeets, owls and even a frog – punters pulled out all the stops for the racing day that doubles as a fashion show.

British fashion designer Amanda Wakeley, who wore a black and white trouser suit from her collection and a Jane Taylor hat, summed up the mood of the event.

She said: “I love Ladies’ Day because everyone makes an even bigger effort. Everyone has their own take on femininity and I’m a big fan of staying true to yourself.”

Argentinian-born Paula Gibson, 59, had travelled to Ascot with British husband Jonathan Gibson from their home in Amsterdam and needed two hands to steady her large hat – a collection of exotic birds, owls, nests of eggs, butterflies, fruit and a frog.

She said: “I’ve been collecting the birds throughout the year from shops then sat down last weekend and put the hat together.”

Racegoers are encouraged to make a special effort with their outfits for Ladies’ Day, which is as much a social occasion as a sporting event for top owners, trainers and jockeys.

Marie Hudson, 76, from St Helens, was sporting a hamper on her head filled with champagne flutes, a bottle of bubbly, sweet treats and fruit. She said: “I just love Ascot, we come every year and just love the atmosphere. My hat was made by one of my friends, Karen, it’s just something different.”

FEATHER IN HER CAP: Lystra Adams from Stafford cuts a flamboyant dash

Women are encouraged to show off on Ladies’ Day and did not disappoint

Anne Hudson from St Helens sports her hamper hat

Paula Gibson needed two hands to steady her hat

This pair were not to be outshone for style