Racing returned to Meydan Racecourse for the opening of the Dubai Racing Club’s season earlier this month on November 6th. There are 19 racing programmes with the season culminating at the world’s richest raceday, the Dubai World Cup with a purse of $10million on March 28th.

Dubai racing is conservatively fashion-conscious but increasingly creative. There is a reinterpretation of traditional notions of what it means to dress modestly.

Be inspired by esteemed designers that have started to cater to the growing demand for stylish modest wear. DKNY released a collection during Ramadan this year that sold exclusively in the Arabian Gulf. With jewel colored, ankle length sheaths, floral maxi skirts and flowy jumpsuits, gauzy long blouses and wrist baring jackets the collection was pure luxurious elegance. Typically racewear rules dictate skirt lengths above the ankle, avoiding an evening gown look, but Meydan races are an exception. Just keep the length fresh with simple accessories and bright daytime colors.

Karl Lagerfeld’s Chanel Cruise Collection, unveiled this year in Dubai, gathered inspiration from the rich culture and patterns of the Middle East.  Lagerfeld’s collection was a romantic reimagining of Arabian Nights with opulent fabrics of beading clusters, layered geometries, tweeds and patchworks. Even harem pants.

Below are some ideas to keep it stylish and sweet. Top off the look with a neat little Autumn/Winter felt or wool hat.
      

Racegoers at Meydan are a varied bunch. Just like the horses, there are winners and losers.

But as the World Cup Race approaches, trackside style stakes sass up from tame to top notch.