Start 2024 in style at Musselburgh Racecourse

The annual sell out day on 1st January, which attracts stylish crowds of more than 6000 from all over Scotland, remains one of the most popular ways to toast the new year. There’s dynamic horses and skilful jockeys that make for thrilling jump races with more than £100,000 in prize money up for grabs. 

There’s also festive culinary delights and delicious refreshments, using the best from Scotland’s larder, for the ultimate refuel. Some of Scotland’s finest street food experts on hand include Bonnie Burrito, Cheese on Coast; and there’s an exclusive boozy hot chocolate with the choice of Cointreau, Baileys, and Amaretto from the Deli to keep the party goers warm. Then there’s the famed off-track entertainment.

The Highland Fling Marquee with live music and ceilidh dancing in between races from Kilter Ceilidh Band, is where it’s at. With more and more racegoers wrapping up stylishly warm and attending New Year’s Day Race Day in striking attire, it’s also where judges will be scanning the crowds to find the most stylish racegoer as part of The Style Awards! And if that’s not enough, this year precious pooches will also have the chance of bagging the first ever “best dressed dog” contest.

Fancy winning a Musselburgh Racecourse Annual Membership and £150 Tiger Lily Boutique voucher, whilst enjoying some sensational racing and electrifying live music? Well you’ll need to dress to impress the judges from leading Scottish fashion boutique Tiger Lily. The acclaimed and award-winning Broughty Ferry and Aberdeen-based outfitter is Musselburgh Racecourse’s 2024 Ladies Fashion Sponsor, and the fashionable team will be on the hunt for the best dressed. 

Which begs the big question: what on earth to wear? 

Aisling Johnston, Marketing Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, says:

“Comfort and warmth remain key, but we are always so impressed to see how many racegoers do this with style. Every year my head is turned all day long with the enviable looks people create. Our racegoers certainly know how to dress!”

Fashion expert Clare MacDougall of Tiger Lily Boutique agrees.

“Our top tip for New Year’s Raceday is dress warm and layer up! Whether it be a cosy hat, scarf… or our staple Gabrielle Gilet. At TLB we have glamour to keep you cosy.” She adds, “As judges of The Style Awards, we’ll be looking for some stand out style. At TLB we love a coordinated outfit, something well thought out and put together. We can’t wait to see the glamour of the Musselburgh Racecourse.”

Here we delve a little deeper into what will help you stand out from the crowd…

Stylish outerwear 

Most importantly, dress for the weather. Think warm layers and a cosy jacket or coat. Faux fur or Teddy-style coats always look great on ladies, as do smart thick wool coats or a traditional trench. It’s understated yet chic. Plus, it’ll keep you dry in unpredictable weather.  

A blazer is another winning choice, especially for him. Whether it’s tweed, checked or self-coloured, it can look sharp and smart teamed with jeans and boots. If you’re hitting the dancefloor at the Highland Fling Marquee, you’ll look the part too. A cape is another good solution for layering. Tiger Lily Boutique recommend their Peony or AnnMarie Cape to feel effortlessly stylish this season. We couldn’t agree more! 

First footing  

Choose comfortable footwear, you’ll be on your feet most of the day. Flat boots or ones with a chunky heel are the go-to for racegoers. Save your stilettos from getting ruined and stuck in the mud. No open toes in this weather! 

Colour  

Neutral, earthy tones are often popular at winter race days but you can also go bold and inject some colour. Red is the colour of the season and it’s surprisingly very wearable. Whether it’s a jacket, coat or suit, embrace the trend and have some fun! If that feels like too much, try adding a coloured glove. 

Accessorise 

Whether it’s a traditional and classic Fedora hat, handbag, scarf or embellishment like feathers and faux fur, there are lots of ways to add a little interest to your outfit and stand out from the crowd. And don’t forget your footwear. Keep it comfortable, keep it warm so you can last the pace! 

To find out more about the family-friendly, fashionable New Year’s Day Race Day on 1 January, click here.