There are few bigger social events on the calendar than the Belmont Stakes, with the Grade One being the final leg of the Triple Crown in the United States. It is traditionally where champions are crowned, as it is staged after the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, but there hasn’t been a Triple Crown champion crowned at the event since Justify in 2018.
That could change this year, as Mystik Dan could travel to the track in New York after winning the Kentucky Derby and Preakness, meaning the eyes of the world may be on the Belmont Stakes. You can find all information on Belmont in TwinSpires website.
But, as well as being a hugely successful event for horse racing fans, it is an exceptionally popular event to attend for social reasons, meaning that many fans often question how dressed up they should get when attending the Belmont Stakes.
Belmont Stakes at Saratoga
A big difference with the Belmont Stakes this year is the fact that it will be taking place away from its usual home track. Instead, the 2024 edition of the race will be staged at Saratoga due to renovation work that has been planned at Belmont Park. It is a slightly less lucrative purse for connections to target this year, with the fund decreased to $2 million.
It will also be run over a slightly shorter distance of 1 ¼ miles due to the track size at Saratoga. The changes to the event will take effect this year, with the 2025 edition of the Belmont Stakes also being run at Saratoga next year.
Dress Rules to Comply with
Fashion is a huge factor to bear in mind before attending the Belmont Stakes, as there are a number of codes that male visitors should take into account before putting together their outfit. Despite the likely hot weather in New York, visitors aren’t able to wear shorts to attend the Belmont Stakes, while short-sleeved shirts were also banned at Belmont Park during recent editions of the race.
Therefore, visitors should ensure that they dress for the warm weather without wearing their summer outfits. Other important rules to bear in mind, include the fact that visitors can’t wear trainers, and they will also be refused entry if they are wearing sporting colours or gym attire. However, it’s hugely unlikely that any visitors that have been racing previously will fall victim to this rule breach.
Colorful Outfits
Female visitors are always encouraged to dress in bright colors, meaning that this is a typically popular option for males. Long gone are the days of men wearing black suits to the racing, with images for the Triple Crown races in recent years being full of interesting variations of color. Visitors often look to stand out in the crowd, with fashion giving them a chance to show their creativity when it comes to their look at the racing.
Pink was a popular color at the Kentucky Derby, meaning that most fashion-minded people will be looking to avoid sporting the same color at the Belmont Stakes this year. Yellow is always a popular selection for both male and female visitors, as it will certainly ensure that they are able to stand out from the crowd.
For those visitors that are looking to stand out without wearing the brightest shades of colors, it could be worth examining blue shirts with black or grey trousers. However, as long as male visitors feel comfortable, then they will likely have an excellent day at Saratoga for the final leg of the Triple Crown this year.
Accessorize
Accessories are one of the biggest factors that female visitors take into account when putting together their outfit for a day at the racing, and the men should be no different. Flowers on suits are a popular option for the many men that go racing throughout the season, especially at the biggest events on the calendar.
Meanwhile, pocket tissues enable visitors to get creative with their colour schemes, as this could be a perfect option to match with your socks or trousers. Hats are always popular when attending the racing, and the Belmont Stakes is no different.
Straw hats are among the most popular selections for the racing at Saratoga, as they will be cool enough to ensure that your head doesn’t get too warm while also offering much-needed shade from the sun. For those looking for alternatives, fedoras are always popular among male visitors, as well as trilby and panamas.
Other Key Items to Remember
A day at the racing will usually involve fans to be outdoors for over eight hours throughout the day, which means that it is always important to take sun cream and umbrella to ensure that you’re prepared for all the elements should the weather change for the worse.
As well as this, charging devices for phones are always encouraged to ensure that you don’t miss a chance to power your phone in order to access betting apps for the big race.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
P.S. We want to hear from you! Do you like the Belmont Stakes? Why? Do you attend it? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via e-mail or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!
One reply on “Fashion Tips for Belmont Stakes: What to Wear in Saratoga”
No shorts for men in the summer? Many areas of Saratoga have always allowed this in the past. I find it hard to believe they can change the culture like that overnight!