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Jade Holland Cooper reveals the race day formula she always relies on for Aintree
Reach Daily Express | April 10, 2026 5:40 PM CST

When it comes to race-day dressing, few names carry as much weight as Jade Holland Cooper. The British designer has built Holland Cooper into a multi-million-pound brand, becoming synonymous with polished tailoring and elevated country style.

Her designs have been worn by some of the biggest names around the globe, and most notably, royalty. The designer has seen the likes of the Princess of Wales to Zara Tindall champion her staples, to the likes of BBC star Claudia Winkleman. The British label has also proved a huge hit with men, too, with David Beckham even spotted wearing her designs.

As the Jockey Club's Official Fashion Partner, Jade sits firmly at the centre of the race-day style conversation. And with Aintree running from Thursday 9th April through to Saturday 11th, the focus isn't just on the racing - it's on what everyone is wearing. If you're planning your outfit or looking for inspiration for your next event, consider this your guide.

For Jade, building the perfect race-day look always begins in the same place - tailoring

"For me, when I'm putting together a race-day look, the first piece I always start with is tailoring. Our British-made tailoring is the foundation of every outfit I wear, it defines the silhouette, sets the tone, and establishes the level of formality from the very start. Everything else is built around it. After all, April weather is famously unpredictable."

It's a practical approach, but one that also delivers instant polish.

"For Aintree, it's all about being both practical and stylish. We offer something for everyone, from sharply cut tweed suits to elegant dresses, but for me, it's about empowering women to feel confident. I want women to think, 'I'm going to power-dress in this suit - I can wear a shirt and tie if I want - and still feel feminine and elegant.' That balance of strength and sophistication is what makes a look truly memorable.

And if tailoring isn't your thing, she's clear there's an alternative. A pretty dress will always stand the test of time. She added: "It's about choosing a piece that feels instantly polished and considered. Once you have that, everything else - accessories, shoes, even outerwear falls into place naturally, creating a look that's effortlessly complete."

Once that foundation is in place, the rest of the look should feel considered - not crowded.

"Once I have that hero piece, everything else becomes about refinement. I focus on tailoring, and ensure the accessories complement rather than compete. It's about balance, you want to stand out, but in a way that feels effortless, never overworked."

It's often the smallest details that make the biggest impact.

"Small styling tweaks can make all the difference; a way to make a tweed suit more summer occasion wear is a good fascinator as this adds elegance and femininity to the look. Also, pairing the look with a bold earring, it brings a sense of occasion while staying true to the elegance and tradition of British summer events."

While trends come and go, Jade is clear on what never changes.

"The non-negotiables are comfort and practicality. Tailoring, without question, will keep you warm and elevate the outfit. It's about quality fabrics, a strong silhouette, and attention to detail."

She continued the key to a perfect ensemble is choosing "appropriate footwear", as "you will be on your feet all day." Jade recommended either Holland Cooper's Regency Mid-Heel boot or Regency Court shoe.

It's a reminder that looking good and feeling comfortable should go hand in hand.

Race-day dressing is rooted in tradition - but that doesn't mean it has to feel outdated.

"It always starts with classic British style. That sense of heritage and timelessness is incredibly important. From there, it's about refining it in a way that feels relevant today, whether that's through the cut, new silhouettes or fabrics."

That balance is at the heart of her brand. Speaking of her new collection, she shared "With our occasionwear this season, we've been very focused on creating silhouettes that are both timeless and incredibly flattering. They're pieces you can return to year after year but still feel completely current in how they're worn. It's that balance of classic style and modernity that defines everything we do."

If there's one mistake Jade sees time and time again, it's overthinking.

"I think the most common mistake is overcomplicating it. There can be a tendency to try and do too much, whether that's too many statement pieces or details competing for attention, and it can dilute the overall look."

She added, "For me, the most impactful outfits are always the simplest. It comes down to beautiful tailoring, considered design, and pieces that are styled with confidence. When everything works in harmony, that's when a look really stands out, it feels effortless rather than overworked."

While trends may shift, Jade's core philosophy has remained consistent. "My approach to race-day dressing has evolved around one constant, championing British craftsmanship and tailoring. From the very beginning, the same classic tweeds have been at the heart of our collection, and they remain at the core of everything we do."

She's also seen a shift in how women approach race-day style. "I also believe women want to stand out and be different, you see much for variation racing now. Women are adopting strong, masculine tailoring."

With Aintree underway, one thing is clear - race day is no longer just about the horses. It's about showing up, dressing with intent, and getting that balance just right. And if there's anyone to take notes from, it's Jade Holland Cooper.


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