How to Accessorise Your Races Outfit — Top Tips from Ivory Lane

Your dress is sorted. Now comes the fun part. The right accessories can take a great races outfit and make it truly unforgettable. Here's how to get it right for Galway Races 2026.

1. Statement Earrings — Go Bold or Go Home

For the races, earrings do the heavy lifting. A pair of oversized hoops, dramatic drops or embellished studs instantly elevates even the simplest dress. The rule of thumb: if your outfit is busy with print or colour, keep earrings sleek and simple. If your dress is understated, this is your moment to go big.

Ivory Lane tip: Gold tones work beautifully with warm summer palettes — think terracotta, coral, cream and olive. Silver and pearl suit cooler tones like navy, blush and sage.

2. The Clutch — Small Bag, Big Impact

A clutch is non-negotiable at the races. It keeps your look polished and intentional. Choose one in a complementary colour to your outfit or go for a contrast — a pop of colour against a neutral dress always photographs beautifully.

What to look for: structured clutches in satin, leather or embellished fabric. Avoid anything too casual — a crossbody or tote will let the whole look down.

Browse our Accessories collection for this season's clutch edit.

3. Layered Necklaces or a Statement Pendant

If your neckline allows it, jewellery around the neck adds another dimension to your look. For plunging or V-necklines, a delicate pendant or layered fine chains works perfectly. For higher necklines, skip the necklace and let your earrings do the work instead.

Ivory Lane tip: Don't over-layer. Two necklaces maximum — one shorter, one longer — keeps it elegant rather than overdone.

4. Bracelets & Bangles — Stack with Intention

A stack of fine bangles or a single cuff bracelet adds a finishing touch without competing with your earrings. Keep it on one wrist only and choose metals that match your other jewellery — mixing gold and silver can look unintentional rather than styled.

5. The Fascinator or Hat — Especially for Ladies Day

For Ladies Day (Thursday 30th July) a fascinator or hat is the ultimate finishing touch. It signals that you've made the effort and it photographs brilliantly. You don't need to go over the top — even a simple, well-placed fascinator in a colour that ties your outfit together is enough.

Placement tip: Fascinators sit best tilted slightly to one side, above the eye. Avoid wearing them flat on top of the head.

6. Keep It Cohesive — The Golden Rule

The biggest accessory mistake at the races is wearing too many competing pieces. Pick a metal — gold or silver — and stick to it across all your jewellery. Choose accessories that share a colour story with your outfit. Less is always more when everything works together.

Shop the Full Accessories Edit at Ivory Lane

Find everything you need to complete your races look at our boutique in Oranmore, Co. Galway, our boutique in Castletroy Town Centre, Limerick, and our Jewellery Pod also in Castletroy Town Centre. Or shop online at ivorylane.ie.

Running short on time? Order online for delivery before the races — new pieces added weekly. 🐎