THE SPECTATOR - RACING'S STYLE ICONS

This week The Spectator, herself, shares her top style icons/ inspirations from the world of racing.

If you are anything like me, then a trip to the races is as much about planning your outfit as it is about the actual sport itself. I study the punters' wardrobes with as much enthusiasm and attention as I do the race card. When it comes to the morning of the day, I am often left standing in front of my own wardrobe, scanning the rails and hopelessly shifting through discarded garments. It is in these moments that I often think, ‘what would so and so wear’, depending on who is my fashion muse of the moment. However, it is the following people that I normally rely on in these moments as they are forever and always my racing style icons. JILLY COOPER

Jilly is as effortlessly cool now as she has always been. Her outfits give off the vibe that she just ‘threw it on’ because she has better things to do - you know like writing a best selling novel. I don’t know anyone else who can pull off a knitted dog jumper quite like it. She doesn’t just pull it off, in fact she actually makes work for any occasion. Pairing it with a battered barbour or adding a formal twist with a smart coat and jaunty hat. Cooper completes her look with her signature touselled hair. As for any accessories, you can just guarantee she has a manuscript in her handbag detailing the next bonk buster. She’s so much fun, perhaps, she might even let you read it after a few glasses of bolly… ROSIE TAPNER

If Jilly is an example of style that screams ‘I just threw this together’, then my next icon is at the opposite end of the spectrum. Presenter Rosie Tapner is always perfectly polished and put together. Her immaculate outfits pay homage to whatever course she is broadcasting from and her style showcases countryside brands: think Dubarry, Fairfax & Favour and Holland Cooper. Finally, that hair, it’s glossier than a thoroughbred. If anyone knows her secrets, do pass them on ASAP. NICKY HENDERSON

Timeless. Smart. Sophisticated. Honestly, the list could go on and on. Nicky’s outfits are what every gentleman should aspire to dress like and women too can embody some of the principles of his style! It’s all about classic fits, statement colours and a strong hat. The watch and signet ring combination add a sense of tradition to his look. Nicky knows what works for him and doesn’t deviate. He isn’t a sheep following the most recent fashion trend and I like that in a person. Finally, the sparkle in his eye is the absolute finishing touch. HENRIETTA KNIGHT

Henrietta Knight has been a long standing hero of mine ever since I read her autobiography as a child and discovered she only lived down the road. I mean you can only imagine my excitement at bumping into her at the checkouts in Waitrose. For me, it’s the polo neck and jumper combos which look just as good on the gallops as they do collecting the Gold Cup at Cheltenham. Oh and I love the fluffy hats which would all be snapped up in seconds on Vinted. AND I HOW COULD I FORGET THE PEARLS AND BROOCHES. I don’t think I even need to explain why. Knight is just iconic.

written by Katie Gibson