The Longines Prix de Diane will take place this Sunday, June 14, at the Chantilly Racetrack. While this event is a must-see in the world of horse racing, it is even more so for the tribute it pays to elegance and its signature accessory: the hat. Let’s take a look back at the history of the hat’s presence on the racetrack.
Elegance contest
“Don’t forget to wear a hat, the essential accessory for this chic and glamorous Garden Party.” It’s written in black and white. On the website for the Longines Prix de Diane, taking place this Sunday, June 14, the dress code is strict: “pull out all the stops with a chic outfit” and come equipped with your finest headwear. “Whether it’s designer, small, large, embellished, extravagant, original, or personalized… All styles are welcome and will fit perfectly into the event’s atmosphere,” it states.
Hats and a commitment to elegance have become essential to the race, so much so that an elegance contest has been organized on the Prix de Diane’s social media channels. The winners who submit the best-looking photo will earn a spot among the finalists of this same contest, which will take place on race day.
To understand the origins of this accessory’s deep-rooted tradition, we must go back to the second half of the 19th century, when the upper classes of society gathered for this social event. First held in 1843, the Longines Prix de Diane saw the emergence of this passion for hats from its very first editions. Beyond its primary function of protecting spectators from the sun, it established itself as a symbol of elegance and social status in the highest echelons of society.
Click here to read the full article on Luxus Magazine.
Photo à la Une : © Pierre Costabadie
