ONE of the biggest events in the racing calendar is taking place today… and people are dressed to the nines for the occasion.
The Grand National may be one of the most famous racing fixtures, but the fashion is one of the most beloved parts of the occasion too.
Photographers have captured the glitz and glamour of the arrivals and many have donned their glad rags for the prestigious race.
Eye-catching dresses, larger-than-life hats and vibrant suits are in abundance at Aintree racecourse today.
And people appear in high spirits as they make the most of the sunny weather and pop bottles of bubbly.
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Around 150,000 people were expected to flock to the Merseyside racecourse across the three-day Grand National Festival.
The racing bonanza kicked off on Thursday, and the famous Ladies’ Day took place on Friday - and the glamorous guests didn’t disappoint with their bold ensembles.
A number of famous faces have been spotted for the main Grand National event today, including Hollyoaks actress Sarah Jayne Dunn and husband Jonathan Smith.
While Cheltenham attendees often prefer tweed-themed outfits, Aintree tends to attract bold fashion, with guests encouraged to dress “to feel your best.”
And unlike Royal Ascot, the dress cost is less strict.
Attendees can even wear fancy dress, as long as it isn’t deemed to be offensive.
The website states: “At Aintree Racecourse we believe racing should be enjoyed by anyone and everyone.
“And one thing is certainly true, the more relaxed and comfortable we feel, the more likely we are to have a great time.
“So that’s why we’ve created one very simple piece of guidance, to come ‘dressed to feel your best.
“We’re all unique, and no more so than in our sense of style and comfort.
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“For some, wearing a nice sweatshirt, pair of jeans and clean trainers is what makes them feel confident and at-ease.
“For others, they might prefer to turn heads with a sharp suit or glamorous dress and high heels, particularly for one of our big race meetings.
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“But whatever your tastes, the most important thing when choosing your outfit is, of course, comfort and confidence.
“So wear what feels right for you and will keep you feeling your best from start to finish, whatever the weather.”
The Grand National, which will kick off at 4pm, remains arguably the biggest horse race in the world.
The event, which traditionally features 40 horses, has been running since 1839 and around a third of the UK is expected to put at least one bet on this year's race.
Last year’s winner was Corach Rambler, who took home the huge £1million prize.
In 2021 Rachael Blackmore became the first-ever female jockey to win the Grand National.
