OFF TO THE RACES

The King, and Queen lead a stylish procession at Royal Ascot, Prince William gets a hug from Carole Middleton and Peter Phillips' girlfriend makes her debut

- LAURA BENJAMIN, SUZANNE WINTROB AND CHRIS DANIELS

His wife may not have been by his side, but the Prince of Wales was in fine form as he donned a top hat and tails to attend Royal Ascot with his father, King Charles, and their extended family.

The event is a highlight on Britain's society calendar, and this year was no exception, with His Majesty, the Queen and Prince William leading an impressive turnout of royals at the legendary Berkshire racecourse. On each of the five days, Charles, 76, and Camilla, 77, guided the way, waving to onlookers along the world-famous track. This year's affair was especially notable as it marked the 200th anniversary of the royal carriage procession - a tradition that began with King George IV's grand entrance in 1825.

FASHION PLATE

As always, Ascot - Queen Elizabeth II's favourite event of the year - was a stylish reunion for the Royal Family, with many showing their affection for one another as they mingled at the racecourse in eye-catching ensembles.

"What's so special about Royal Ascot is that everyone dresses up - it's such a unique occasion," Daniel Fletcher, creative director of the sporting event, told The Royals podcast on opening day. "I love to see people embracing that - and the royals themselves!"

The dress code for the royal enclosure includes skirts "just above the knee or longer" for women; if the garment has shoulder straps, they need to be at least one inch wide. Hats are mandatory, although “a headpiece or hatinator with a minimum base diameter of four inches is acceptable.”

Men must wear “morning dress of black, grey or navy material” paired with a black or grey top hat.