Lizzie Cundy calls for updates to Royal Ascot dress code following outfit rejection

Former WAG Lizzie Cundy is advocating for changes after she was denied entry to Royal Ascot due to her attire choice. The incident occurred earlier this week when the 58-year-old was reprimanded by event organizers for showing up in a cream midi-dress featuring various cut-outs.

Initially apologetic, Cundy appeared on Good Morning Britain today and shifted her stance. Reflecting on the incident, she defended her outfit to hosts Kate Garraway and Ranvir Singh, stating, “The dress had a beige underlay underneath, and I’ll be honest Kate, I don’t think you’ve seen me with so many clothes on.”

Garraway remarked on the conservative nature of Cundy’s attire but emphasized that it did not comply with Royal Enclosure rules. Cundy acknowledged the reprimand, expressing regret and explaining her belief that fashion, not just the racing, is central to events like the races.

Asserting the need for regular updates to the dress code, Cundy insisted, “Fashions change, we need to have the Ascot rules reviewed yearly, as fashion looks change through the seasons. We need it updated.”

Royal Ascot, a high-profile event attended by numerous celebrities including Holly Willoughby and Charlotte Hawkins, enforces a strict dress code. Requirements for the Royal Enclosure mandate knee-length or longer dresses/skirts for women and hats as obligatory accessories. Men are expected to wear specific morning dress ensembles, including a black or grey top hat.

Cundy, whose cream dress with YSL clutch and feather fascinator did not meet the guidelines, reflected, “Yes, I did get a rap on the knuckles but actually the dress was way more conservative than things I’ve worn in the past,” while acknowledging any offense caused.

The incident has sparked debate on gender discrepancies in dress code enforcement at events like Royal Ascot, with Cundy highlighting the need for gender-neutral and fashion-forward updates to the rules.