Ranked: 4 Best Dressed Royal Couples at Day 1 of Royal Ascot 2026

Every year, Royal Ascot draws huge attention from fans around the world, making it one of the most anticipated events on the royal calendar. Known for its grand carriage procession, elegant fashion, and appearances from senior members of the royal family, the iconic event blends tradition with glamour like few others. This year’s Royal Ascot began in spectacular style, bringing together some of the most talked-about members of the royal family. Here are several royal couples who stole the spotlight with their coordinated looks and effortless charm on day one of the event.

Royal Ascot 2026 got underway in grand fashion on Tuesday as the traditional carriage procession marked the start of the event. King Charles and Queen Camilla led the procession and were greeted with loud cheers and warm applause from crowds as they made their way through the racecourse in horse-drawn carriages. Ahead of their appearance, Charles and Camilla wished all the racegoers an exciting and 'thrilling' week ahead, and highlighted the event’s global appeal. As reported by the Daily Express, they noted that the prestigious racing festival brings together top-class horses, world-renowned jockeys, and millions of viewers watching from across the world.

Zara Tindall and Mike Tindall were among the early royal arrivals at Royal Ascot’s opening day, looking stunning together in perfectly coordinated looks. Zara turned heads in a soft lilac midi dress from one of her favorite designers, Rebecca Vallance, along with blush-toned Emmy London heels and rose-tinted Bulgari sunglasses. She completed her outfit with a matching bow-adorned hat by Juliette Millinery. On the other hand, Mike complemented his wife’s look with subtle purple floral details on his pocket and a matching pink tie.

The newlywed couple, who married on Saturday, 6 June, made a notable appearance at Ascot as they arrived in an open-top carriage. Harriet was seated beside her mother-in-law, Princess Anne, with Peter positioned opposite her, as they entered the racecourse. Also sharing the carriage was Sir Ben Elliot, Camilla’s nephew. This marked another significant moment in Sperling’s growing presence at Royal Ascot. She made her debut in 2024 and joined Peter after the formal carriage procession last year. For the day, she chose a soft light-blue silk dress from Suzannah London, and Phillips wore a light-blue tie that subtly echoed his wife’s outfit.

In the third carriage, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, Prince Richard and Birgitte, arrived in classic style. They were joined by Gus Christie, who is the Executive Chairman of Glyndebourne, and his wife, acclaimed soprano Danielle de Niese. Just a few days ago, the royal couple had also been seen on the Buckingham Palace balcony during the traditional RAF flypast after the Trooping the Colour ceremony. They were seen standing alongside other senior working members of the royal family for the ceremonial occasion.