For a lot of us, Christmas isn't Christmas without a day at Leopardstown. The turkey's been eaten, the relations have been seen, and there's nothing better than getting out into the fresh air with a crowd that's in great form.
The festival kicks off on St Stephen's Day, and the big question every year is the same: how do you look well and stay warm at the same time? Here's how we'd do it.
The golden rule: layers
Leopardstown in December can be bright and crisp one minute and bitterly cold the next. Layering is the answer. You can add or take off as the day goes on, and you'll look put together from the first race to the last.
Start with a good shirt, add a warm knit, and finish with your heaviest coat. Then let your accessories do the talking.
For her
The shirt. The Oak Shirt is our pick for a day at the races. It's cut from Oxford cotton with a blue stripe body, white collar and cuffs and a dusty pink pocket, so it looks smart with very little effort. The Women's Country Cotton Shirt (Original) or Women's Country Cotton Shirt (Contrast) also makes a lovely base layer, with the collar out over a jumper.
The knit. The Heritage Crewneck sits perfectly over a shirt, with the collar peeking out at the neck. Pair it with tailored trousers or a skirt and good tights.
The hat. The Ballybar Fedora Hat is the finishing touch that makes a race-day outfit. It's 100% wool, so it also keeps your head warm, which you'll be very grateful for by the fourth race. Add one of our Feather Pins to the band for a bit of personality.
The extras. The Ram Neck Gaiter keeps the cold off without hiding your outfit, and the Ballybar x Pampeano Polo Belt in Burgundy or Pinkstone pulls it all together.
The footwear. Walking between the parade ring, the stands and the bar adds up. If the ground is wet, a pair of Bobbi Boots will keep your feet dry and comfortable, and they look far smarter than you'd expect.
For him
The shirt. The Men's Country Cotton Shirt (Classic) looks great under a jumper or a tweed jacket. If you'd prefer something with more character, the Men's Country Cotton Shirt (Contrast) in Vintage Rose stands out in the best way.
The knit. Layer The Heritage Crewneck over your shirt with the collar out. It's smart enough for the members' enclosure and comfortable enough for the whole day.
The hat. The Ballybar Fedora Hat finishes off the look and makes you easy to spot when your friends are trying to find you at the bar.
The extras. The Ballybar x Pampeano Polo Belt in Forest or Burgundy is a nice detail most men skip. Don't skip it. The Ram Neck Gaiter under your coat collar will keep you warm without the bulk of a scarf.
A few last tips
- Check the forecast the night before and add or drop a layer to suit.
- Wear shoes you can actually walk in. There's a lot more walking at the races than people expect.
- Keep your hands free. A coat with deep pockets beats carrying a bag around all day.
- Pack a spare pair of gloves. Someone in your group will forget theirs.
Getting your outfit in time
If you're planning to wear something new on the day, order by Friday 18th December for delivery in Ireland or Monday 14th December for the UK. Left it late? Click & Collect is available right up to Wednesday 23rd December.
Any questions about sizing or what goes with what, just message us using the chat on our website.
Enjoy the racing, and best of luck with the bets.
Ciara