Darlings, it's time to plan your Goodwood Revival outfit! This isn’t your average weekend event, it's a time-travelling style extravaganza.
From 1940s wartime charm, 1950s Dolce Vita to 1960s mod glamour, the Goodwood Revival dress code is your chance to channel the fashion icons of yesteryear—and look utterly fabulous doing it. Here's your guide on "what to wear".
Each September, West Sussex becomes a glamorous, immersive celebration of mid-20th-century style, speed, and sophistication. Unlike most festivals, the Goodwood Revival is a full-blown period drama—and you’re part of the cast!
If you're wondering what to wear to the Goodwood Revival, fear not. We’ve got you covered from hair to footwear. Whether you're a 1940s land girl, a 1950s bombshell, or a 1960s mod goddess, this is your by era style guide.
La Dolce Vita.
This year's official theme is La Dolce Vita, celebrating mid-century Italian style, romance, and motorsport heritage.
If you're going all out for this look, you'll want to channel your inner 1950s Sophia Loren; think bombshell glamour, cinched hourglass silhouettes, luxurious silk capes and bold Mediterranean styling. Radiate effortless glamour with oversized cat-eye sunglasses and a flowing hair scarf.
"Goodwood Revival is a full-blown period drama—and you’re part of the cast." |
1940s: Wartime Chic.
The 40s woman was practical yet polished. Think Rosie the Riveter meets Ingrid Bergman. Fabrics were rationed, so silhouettes were streamlined. If you’re channeling this era, go for Victory roll hairstyles with red lipstick and strong brows. Jumpsuits, shirtwaist dresses, tea dresses, or skirt suits with shoulder pads.
To bring land girl style, think trousers—high-waisted and wide-legged—with tucked-in blouses. Pair with sensible oxford shoes, or low heels with ankle socks.
Top it off with a knitted beret or headscarf tied under the chin, and perhaps a wicker handbag. If it rains, a classic trench or belted utility coat completes the look perfectly.
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Perfect Cat Eye Sunglasses
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Iris Dress in Cloudflower
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| Mabel dress in green fan print Shop Now |
Green feather bolero Shop Now |
https://prettyeccentric.co.uk/collections/goodwood-revival-oufits
1950s: The Bombshell Decade
It’s the era of Dior’s “New Look,” where femininity reigned. Want to feel like Grace Kelly or Marilyn Monroe for a day? Then this is your decade. Go for pin-up wiggle dresses like our Magic dress, full-skirted swing dresses with nipped waists and petticoats for volume—twirling is encouraged!
Cardigans or cropped jackets with pearl buttons make great layers, if needed.
Gloves, cat-eye sunglasses, kitten heels, peep-toe shoes, or dainty pumps should do the trick.
Hair should be coiffed—think pin curls, soft waves, or a classic chignon. Red lips and winged eyeliner are non-negotiable.
1960s: Mod, Bold & Beautiful
Fancy a little Twiggy? Or a bit of Bardot? The Swinging Sixties were playful, punchy, and unapologetically experimental. Embrace the revolution with mini dresses in bold prints or color-blocked mod patterns.
Tailored jackets and boxy suits with matching skirts.
Accessorise with Go-go boots or Mary Janes. White tights or fun accessories like oversized plastic bangles will look the part. Hair teased into a beehive, a long bouffant ponytail, or with a statement headband will be bang on.
This is the easiest era to source modern-day versions of, especially from high street brands with a retro twist.
"The Goodwood Revival promises fashion, fantasy, and four-wheeled nostalgia" |
So get planning for the daily iconic Best Dressed competition, the runway for the event’s most impeccably turned-out attendees. This years stellar line-up of judge include Sunday Times bestselling author Paula Sutton, of Hill House Vintage, Adele Mildred, Charlotte Dellal and Herbie Mensah. Be prepared for show-stopping looks, runway-worthy retro, and plenty of old-school flair.
The Goodwood Revival promises fashion, fantasy, and four-wheeled nostalgia — all wrapped in a haze of golden-age glamour. The Goodwood Revival isn’t an ordinary outing—it’s a three‑day immersive experience. Don’t just admire history—wear it. Whether you're exploring the pits, sipping Pimms at the VE‑Day street party, or strutting the paddock with a Dita Von Teese‑level attitude, every corner is a scene, and your vintage look is your passport.
