Posted by Shop Retold
on March 23, 2021
Horse racing season is here!
Unfortunately due to Covid-19, the races will not be going ahead in their usual fashion, but that doesn’t mean that the horses will be let off this season either!
We know how hard it is to not be able to meet up with friends in the usual way or attend some of your favourite events in the way that you would like, but if you want to make the most of it like us, here are a few tips and tricks for enjoying the races at home.
Number one: Cocktails!
The first step to getting in the mood for the races would probably be a drink or two. At every race there’s an array of colourful concoctions for everyone to try. Some prefer to stick to the simpler things, while others naturally want to try a bit of everything.
While is great having someone to mix up your drinks, the nice thing about being your own bar tender is that you’re in complete control of the bevs. Want to throw some pears in the Pimms? Go for it! Fancy a fruitier kick to your mimosa? Try adding some berry syrup!
Whether you’re partial to shaken or stirred, we recommend you take a look at these classic racing cocktail recipes over at bourbonveach.com. And if you’re looking for any alcohol-free alternatives check out these great summer-y recipes from brit.co.
Number two: Bits and Bites!
Let’s be honest, food makes everything better! And nothing goes better with your favourite cocktail than your favourite snacks and nibbles. Whether you’re a whizz in the kitchen or more of a take-out kind of person, anything works because hey, you’re the one eating it!
Not everyone is super confident with whipping up some fancy appetizers, and that’s ok! You can order some starters from one of your favourite restaurants and plate them nicely for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Or if you’d like to step out of your comfort zone a little, familyfreshmeals.com has some quick and easy recipes for delicious dips, bits and teasers.
If you’re looking to amp up the sophistication of your home-racing venue try your hand at making your own canapés with these tips and tricks from preppykitchen.com.
Of course if you want to skip out the animal products, theclevermeal.com has some great suggestions for making your own vegan canapés at home. Whichever recipe you choose, whether a home favourite or a quick Spinneys dip, having something to munch while you enjoy the horses is definitely a must-have.
Number three: Clothes (duh!)
We all know that one of the best parts of the horse races is the fashion, and well, we wouldn’t be RETOLD of we weren’t on the lookout for some great horse-racing glam.
It’s always fun taking in the fabulous fashions and styles of both the men and women. Unfortunately due to the restrictions on this year’s races, we won’t be able to enjoy the full array of fascinators, hats and heels, but that doesn’t mean we can’t dress up!
Since you’ll be enjoying the races from the comfort of your own home, you can dress up however you want! Whether you’d like to follow the dress codes of classic races or break out your favourite cocktail dress, your living room is your runway!
If you’re looking for a few ideas we’ve compiled a few outfits based on some popular trends this spring for you to enjoy.
Folk inspired prints and embroidery are very popular this season, if you have a garden you might want to kick back and soak up the sun in this backless maxi dress while enjoying a home-made negroni. Since you’re at home, ditch the fascinator for a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of large sunglasses to go with some strappy wedges to fully finish off the look.
This romantic red dress with artistic floral patterns on it is a much more classic races dress. The flow-y shoulders and shift style skirt not only make it stylish but comfortable as well. We paired it with a pair of interesting kitten heels and accessories with beads and gemstones to compliment the care-free feel of the dress for an effortlessly put-together look.
This spring season we’re seeing a lot of great colour blocking. Which is why we absolutely adore this cocktail dress from Roberto Cavalli, and the draping makes it both comfy and stylish. For a small touch of sophistication we paired it with these interesting yet understated Alexander Mcqeen heals and simple gold accessories for an easy yet elegant spectator-chic look.
Coming back to prints and patterns, this pink and purple paisley pattern is perfect for an elegant yet interesting races outfit. We’ve paired it with a pair of aqua blue kitten heels and teal tassel earrings for a fresh splash of colour to offset the pattern and make it pop even more.
This final look is a sweet and fun red mini-dress with lots of interests and texture. This is a perfect dress for someone who wants to dress up without having to accessorize too much. After all, this gorgeous little number definitely speaks for itself. To keep the look simple we’ve paired it with a pair of flashy gold sandals to add a bit of punch and some dangly gold earrings to round off the whole look.
What does your race day outfit look like? Let us know by tagging us on Instagram at @shopretold, don’t forget to show off your fabulous home-made cocktails and canapés as well x
