There are few dates in the British summer calendar as sartorially significant as Henley Royal Regatta. Set against the verdant backdrop of Henley on Thames and steeped in sporting tradition, Henley is as much a showcase of impeccable style as it is rowing prowess. With less than a month to go, the anticipation is reaching a peak, and the question of wardrobe is becoming pressing.
Whether you’re a seasoned guest in the Stewards’ Enclosure or enjoying a more relaxed riverside view, dressing appropriately - and stylishly - is essential. Here’s our guide to getting it right, along with our top picks to help you do just that.
Dress Code For The Stewards’ Enclosure At Henley: Dress Like You Belong
With its strictly enforced dress code, the Stewards’ Enclosure remains a bastion of traditional British style. Here, gentlemen are required to wear a full-length suit or a blazer with tailored trousers, and a tie or cravat is a must.
The Classic Ensemble
Blazer: A navy or club-striped blazer sets the tone. Rowing club & regimental blazers are recommended if you have one. For those who need to make a choice, our suggestion is:
Our Robert Old Navy Herringbone 100% Wool Jacket offers a stylish two-button jacket which pairs well with our recommended items below.
Trousers: Opt for light grey flannels or classic cream trousers in a linen blend to ensure you're not going to overheat.
A pair of Cream Loro Piana Linen & Silk Regular Fit Trousers will keep you cool, with a neutral style that's perfect for the Steward's Enclosure.
Shirt: Keep it crisp - white or sky-blue poplin works best. Double cuffs are encouraged, letting you add polish with your choice of cufflinks.
Eton's Light Blue Signature Twill Classic Fit Shirt offsets the darker blue of the jacket, with a 100% cotton construction that is all-important if temperatures rise.
Tie or Cravat: The choice is yours, however we do have a wide range of ties for you to choose from here.
Shoes: A pair of polished brown or oxblood Oxfords, brogues or loafers completes the look. You might be on your feet during races, so remember you'll want style to be backed up by comfort.
Crockett & Jones Lonsdale Oxford Shoes are not only both comfortable and stylish, they'll continue to serve you well for many a future regatta.
Style Note: Henley may unfold under blazing sun (although the British weather system being what it is, it also may not), but shorts are forbidden within the Enclosure. You can mitigate this with a linen blend or tropical-weight wool which will keep you cool without sacrificing decorum.
Dress Code for The Regatta Enclosure: Smart, Summery, and Slightly More Relaxed
There’s no dress code in the Regatta Enclosure, but there is certainly encouragement to choose a wardrobe that complements the attire found in the Stewards’ Enclosure, so why not? Just remember to keep it cool in case the sun comes out, with cotton and linen top of the list of fabrics to shop for.
Refined Summer Style
Blazer: A single-breasted jacket in linen, cotton or lightweight hopsack - beige, sage or pastel blue are all in play.
Belvest's Light Turquoise 'Natural Soft' Silk, Wool & Mohair Jacket is the obvious choice here, offering a muted but handsome colour that will catch the eye, but not too much.
Trousers: Tailored chinos in a neutral tone or pale stone keep the look sharp and seasonally appropriate.
Our Robert Old Butter Stretch Cotton & Linen Twill Chinos offer a light blend optimised for summer days.
Shirt: A soft-striped or pinpoint Oxford shirt offers a relaxed feel without compromising on elegance.
Eton's Light Blue Striped Oxford Cotton-Tencel Shirt offers a superb choice here, with sustainable Lyocell giving it a soft finish that's hard to beat.
Tie (Optional): Though not mandatory, a knitted silk tie or light linen number brings the outfit together with effortless grace.
Shoes: Suede loafers or smart Derby shoes - clean and understated.
Crockett & Jones' Sydney Snuff Suede Loafers are another pair that will safely see you through many years of wear.
Accessory Tip: A Panama hat not only protects from the sun, it elevates the look. Pair with a neatly folded pocket square for added flair.
Henley Riverside Spectating: Suggested Dress Code
If you’re watching from the towpath or attending a private garden party, the atmosphere may be more relaxed - but you’ll still want to look the part.
Riverbank Chic
Shirt: A linen or chambray shirt, sleeves rolled and collar unbuttoned.
The Robert Old Navy Blue Stripe Italian Linen Long Sleeve Shirt offers exactly the right level of riviera-inspired style, with the linen construction safeguarding against climbing temperatures both on and off the river.
Trousers: Well-cut chinos or tailored shorts if the mercury does climb (but never cargo or denim).
Robert Old Light Pink Cotton Stretch Chino Shorts are an understated, but fun, choice here. They offer a dash of colour whilst remaining smarter than the average short.
Footwear: Boat shoes, espadrilles or minimal leather trainers - crisp and clean.
Sperry's Brown Leather Gold Cup Boat Shoes feature their signature comfort system, giving them the edge over lesser boat shoes.
Layering Tip: A fine-gauge knit over the shoulders or a soft-shouldered unstructured blazer keeps the look grounded and offers a nod to tradition.
What to Avoid
No matter your ticket, you should still avoid:
- Trainers or sandals
- Loud novelty prints
- Unbuttoned shirts with bare chests
- Ties missing in the Stewards’ Enclosure
- Anything too tight, too short, or too modern for the occasion
Henley is, after all, about subtlety and tradition. It’s a celebration of British style and restraint - with just enough room to show personality through details.
Dressing for Henley is not about fashion - it’s about timeless style. It’s a nod to club traditions, a celebration of tailoring, and a chance to dress in a way that's truly British.
The golden rule is simple: dress with intention, and let your outfit do justice to the occasion.
