Goodwood Revival Fashion & Style Guide for Ladies 2026
Goodwood Revival Fashion & Style Guide for Ladies 2026
The Ultimate Women's Dress Code for Goodwood Revival Style
This is the time of year when we are asked for clothing and vintage styling advice from those attending the famous Goodwood Revival racing event. Over the years, we have helped many ladies choose their perfect outfit and since it's coming up soon (18th September 2026), we have updated our handy 'Goodwood Revival Fashion Guide' for vintage dressing tips and further information to help you on your way to one of the most amazing vintage events of the year!
We are regularly asked 'What Is Goodwood Revival and Why Do People Dress Up?'...
This famous event attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world and whilst it is known for vintage and classic motorsports - it's also known for it's vintage fashion and glamour particularly 1940s through to 1960s (specifically stated as 1948 to 1966). There are vintage fashion parades thoughout the weekend AND a best dressed contest where scouts from the event will select from attendees whom they believe encapsulate the vintage fashion glamour.
Do You Have to Dress Up at Goodwood Revival?
It really is an excuse to dress UP TO THE NINES in vintage inspired fashions and outfits of the period covered; 1940s, 1950s & 1960s (although there are many who choose to 1920s and 1930s too!). It seems any gorgeous outfit from any vintage era is a hit at this iconic event. You dont have to dress up - of course there are some who dont - but it is likely you will regret it if you arrive in casual attire. It is such fun and it can really be YOUR moment to shine and be a part of something!
Things to note for Goodwood Revival First Timers:
- You will definitely regret it if you don’t dress up - it's all a part of the experience!
- Take something warm just in case you decide to stay late – it can get very cold once the sun goes down at this time of the year
- You may have to walk a fair way from your parking – take suitable walking shoes and change when you arrive at the event. This can also save precious vintage shoes from wear!
- You can get your hair done but it's always worth booking in advance
- Bring a brolly!
Getting dressed up really is a thrilling part of attending this event - not only are there fashion shows and events going on - you could also win an amazing prize in the 'best dressed' comp
Which Vintage Decade Is Right For You? 40s, 50s or 60?
Below are some outfit suggestions set out in sections to help you on your way...
Foxy Folk spotted at Goodwood Revival over the years...
1940s Outfit Ideas for Goodwood Revival
1940s fashion is much more versatile than you may initially think. The 1940s to many will bring to mind the glamour of the 40s Pin Up - but there is so much more to try out from this period and it can be a very flattering look. We have the practical styles of the wartime Land Army Girls - high waist trousers and masculine blouses. Then there are the ultra feminine 1940s tea dance dresses in floral prints, wedge shoes and brogues. Dont forget the high glamour of the film noir styles from the 1940s too.
Makeup: subtle winged eyeliner, red lip, false lashes
Hair: 1940s hair is definitely the iconic element of this era - but can easily look silly if not done right. Avoid victory rolls and try the 40s poodle, a simple roll and the back or try a snood with hair flowers.. check out instruction videos on youtube. If your hair is short - opt for a turban style or head scarf.
Accessories: seamed stockings/tights (order here), hat or snood, diamanté jewellery
Shoes: brogues or sandals with a platform
1940s Tailoring for Goodwood: The Practical Suit Look
There is nothing quite so iconic as the 1940s Suit. This is a great style for those who seek a practical yet super elegant option and is helpful when the weather isn't quite as clement. There were some masculine elements to the suits of this period. Styles became more boxy in shape with padded shoulders and strong, durable fabrics. Trousers were becoming more acceptable.
Trousers from the 1940s are different to modern styles - choose our reproduction high waisted, wide leg trousers which are really flattering and should be paired with a waisted jumper or blouse and jacket.
Our 1940s style trousers are best seller at Goodwood
See our tailoring and utility style collection below.
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1940s Tea Dress Outfits for Goodwood Revival
Think tea dances, picnics, flirty florals, shirt-waisters and sweetheart necklines. The classic tea dress is an iconic 1940s look - it's what we often think of when we picture 1940s style.
Supremely feminine, elegant and comfortable too, this style is often adopted by many ladies at Goodwood Revival. Pair with a blazer, simple jacket or even a cardigan. A tea dress can be dressed up with heals and jewellery or down with a head scarf.
The House of Foxy is renowned for it's authentic collection of 1940s designs. Peruse our 1940s collection of ladieswear perfect for Goodwood Revival.
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1940s Film Noir Glamour: Hollywood-Style Goodwood Outfits
At Goodwood Revival, many ladies adopt the ultimate and iconic sophisticated clothing of the 1940s hollywood glamour - whether that be a suit with a faux fur or an elegant draped dress with shoulder pads to emphasise the silhouette. Remember the must have accessory for this outfit - headwear! This may be in form of a tilt hat, a beret or even a turban.
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1950s Outfit Ideas for Goodwood Revival: A Classic Favourite
If you prefer high glam - then the 1950s is for you and this year, Goodwood Revival have promoted the theme of 'La Dolce Vita' which fits perfectly with a real mid '50s vibe. Think Sophia Loren, Capri chic & Italian Riveria! For those of you who like a glamourous look and want to feel like you're really dressing differently then a 1950s inspired style choice is the one for you!
There's no doubt that the 1950s look is one of the most flattering for all shapes - whether you go for a sultry wiggle pencil style or a full and frothy petticoat - it's all so glam.
Makeup: Strong winged eyeliner, bold lip in red or pink, false eyelashes
Hair: 1950s classic hairstyles were just as varied as the 40s but perhaps more daring. Short and shaggy Italian cut styles, curled and waved short hair, pageboy or worn in a ponytails with bangs. Again check out instruction videos on youtube.
Accessories: seamed stockings/tights (order here), plenty of jewelry, matching bags and gloves
Shoes: court shoes with a heal
1950s Dior New Look Outfits for Goodwood Revival
In 1947, Dior launched the classic 'New Look' - which was all about the ultra feminine hourglass shape. The waist was emphasised by a full skirt and tailored jacket often with strong shoulders. This look became the iconic shape we now think of when we visualise the 1950s.
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1950s La Dolce Vita Style: Italian Riviera Looks for Goodwood
The 1950s was post war optimistic - and this was strongly reflected in fashion through colours and prints across Europe. Iconic wide skirted floral cotton dresses with full and frothy skirts. Super feminine and perfect if you fancy something more comfortable. Pair with head scarf and cat eye sunglasses for that super Sophia look!
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1950s Wiggle Dress Outfits: Monroe-Inspired Goodwood Style
The second silhouette is about a close fitting 'pencil line' look - the hemline was lower and the waist still slim and wasp tight. This can be achieved with good underwear but also by using blouson styles on the top half to create the illusion of a smaller waist. For those who like to dress well but want a sophisticated look - then adopting the 1950s pencil line style is for you! You can do this in a number of way - a sexy wiggle dress that hugs your curves, a classy fitted suit or a more conservative pencil skirt paired with a blouse and a 50s style swing coat.
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1960s Outfit Ideas for Goodwood Revival:
Whilst the 1960s often brings to mind mods, rockers and the era of the hippie; there's a lot more to this decade than you might initially think. A lot to go at from a styling point of view.
For this was also the era of Jackie O twin sets, cute coordinated suits and the rising hemline. It was fun and flirty but also had a dash of extra sophistication certainly in the earlier part of the decade. Think pill box hats, bouffant hairstyles and pearls.
Also known as the era of the mini - this was certainly more of a moment than we probably give credit to. Never before was that much leg seen - this was a boundary pushing time.
Later in the decade saw the onset of a more boho look epitomised by the late 60s hippie movement
Makeup: Super strong winged eyeliner with extra definition in the eye socket, pale nude or light pink lip
Hair: 1960s hairstyles started out similar to what we think of in the 50s, Shorter styles, bangs and then came the beehive. Later on, hair was longer, bouffont and Bardot like.
Accessories: Again, started similar to the 50s; strings of beads, pearls and statement earrings. Ended with long beads and all manner of anything!
Shoes: Probably the era of the boot!
1960s Jackie O Style: Elegance at Goodwood Revival
Our first 1960s 'look' is channelling Jackie O's 'gracious lady' style, encapsulated by the slim-fitting suit, coordinated jacket, and of course, the iconic pillbox hat. With a hemline sitting slightly higher than the 1950s but still beautifully tailored, this look is polished, ladylike and endlessly elegant.
Think boxy jackets with clean lines, a fitted skirt, and a colour palette of soft pastels or classic neutrals: pink, powder blue, cream and camel all work beautifully. Pair with box-shaped handbags, kitten heels and oversized sunglasses for that effortless early-60s sophistication. This is a wonderful option for Goodwood if you want to feel put-together and glamorous without sacrificing comfort - the tailoring is structured but never restrictive.
Finish the look with a neat updo or bouffant, a slick of pale lipstick, and pearls at the neck or ears. It's a style that photographs beautifully and never goes out of fashion.
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1960s Boho Style: Free-Spirited Looks for Goodwood Revival
Later in the decade came a shift towards a more relaxed, bohemian look — epitomised by the late-60s hippie movement and every bit as wearable at Goodwood as the earlier, more structured styles. If you love a floaty silhouette and a bit of colour, this is the era for you.
Think flowing maxi dresses, bell sleeves, and paisley or floral prints in warm, earthy tones: rust, olive, mustard and burnt orange all capture the mood beautifully. Fringing, crochet detailing and suede all lean into the look too, whether that's a waistcoat, a bag or a pair of boots. Layer with a wide-brimmed hat or a headscarf tied at the crown for an easy finishing touch.
Accessorise with long beaded necklaces, oversized sunglasses and stacks of rings or bangles: the more the merrier with this look. Hair works well worn loose and slightly tousled, or parted centrally with soft waves. This is a brilliant option if you want something comfortable to move and dance in over a long day at the event, without losing any of the vintage glamour.
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Ready for Goodwood Revival?
Whichever era speaks to you - the practical elegance of the 1940s, the glamour of 1950s Hollywood and Dolce Vita style, or the sophistication and free-spirited fun of the 1960s... The most important thing is choosing an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable for a long day (and night!) of celebrating vintage style. Don't be afraid to mix elements from different decades or make a look your own; some of the best Goodwood outfits are the ones with a bit of personality stitched in.
If you need any further help choosing your perfect Goodwood look, get in touch with our team - we're always happy to offer styling advice. And don't forget to tag us in your outfit photos, we love seeing how you wear Foxy!
From the Blog
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