The second day of the Cheltenham Festival , previously known as Ladies Day, was rebranded as Style Wednesday by The Jockey Club in 2024. Attendees at the Festival have always been known for their sartorial elegance, but the second day at Prestbury Park specifically encouraged visitors to don their finest outfits. However, the event underwent a significant transformation in 2024 when it was officially renamed Style Wednesday, moving away from its previous title of Festival Wednesday, used in 2023 .
This change was initiated by the organisers with the aim of making the dress code more relaxed, gender-neutral, 'accessible', and 'inclusive'. As a result, formal attire like jackets and ties were no longer mandatory, but this switch didn't go down without its share of controversy, with some branding it 'woke'. "This year we re-launched day two of the festival as Style Wednesday to celebrate 'fast horses, slow fashion', encouraging racegoers to make more sustainable fashion choices," a spokesperson for the course announced in 2024.
"Showcasing their unique and personal style, and to share the stories behind their amazing outfits with friends, family and on social media. "This includes re-wearing outfits they already have in their wardrobes, purchasing timeless garments to wear again and again and also buying from retailers specialising in pre-loved clothing." While the Queen Mother Champion Chase is the main event on the track, off it, the Style Wednesday Slow Fashion Awards are set.