Beyond the cars: the art of occasion dressing returns to Salon Privé
Salon Privé has always been synonymous with rare automotive beauty, but in recent years it has also become a runway for fashion excellence.
This year, the 20th anniversary event marks a renaissance in the art of occasion dressing, inviting guests to embrace a sartorial style as polished as the cars on display.
The official guidance from Salon Privé celebrates ‘smart and elegant’ attire. For gentlemen, that means tailored blazers or suits paired with chinos and brogues, with the option to elevate the look with ties or simple and classic accessories.
For ladies, the call is for chic daywear with flowing summer dresses, tailored trousers, or statement jumpsuits, often crowned with elegant hats, headpieces and fascinators. Practicality is also part of the brief, with wedges or block heels recommended for navigating the lawns of Blenheim Palace and gravel driveways with grace.
London-based luxury brand consultant and stylist, Oriona Robb, said: “There’s something thrilling about the return of true occasion dressing at Salon Privé. Clothing here is more than an outfit, instead it’s a statement of respect for the event, its heritage, and the people attending. It’s a visual celebration of not just the cars on show but of a return to occasion dressing and ‘getting dressed up’.
“Gentlemen can strike the perfect balance with light tailoring, a crisp shirt, and well-polished brogues, while ladies might embrace bold colours, refined prints, or timeless neutrals topped with a hat that turns heads. The magic lies in the details, whether that’s perfectly chosen accessories, breathable fabrics, and footwear that combines style with practicality. Dressing well for Salon Privé isn’t about rigid rules and turning people away for wearing the wrong thing, instead it’s about crafting an ensemble that feels luxurious, confident and event-appropriate.”
She added: “Above all, the magic of Salon Privé style lies in dressing with intention. When your outfit respects the occasion, you become part of the spectacle as much as the cars themselves.”
Oriona’s style guide for the perfect Salon Privé style that brings occasion dressing back;
Ladies
- Go bold with dresses or jumpsuits
Choose a silhouette that flatters and moves with you. A midi-length dress in silk, linen, or fine cotton works beautifully. - Crown your look
A hat, fascinator, or sculptural headpiece can transform even a simple dress into a statement outfit, especially on Ladies’ Day by Boodles where the winner of The Best Hat competition will scoop prizes worth thousands. - Think footwear practicality
Wedges, block heels, or chic flats ensure elegance without sinking into the lawn. - Colour and print
Pastels and florals feel timeless, while jewel tones can add a modern, striking edge.
Gentlemen
- Light Tailoring
A linen or lightweight wool blazer keeps things sharp yet comfortable and lifts an outfit. - Accents Matter
A silk pocket square, cravat, or classic tie adds personality and can bring in quirky patterns or a touch of colour. - Shoes Tell the Story
Polished brogues or loafers finish the look, and this isn’t the event to choose your everyday trainers when you could elevate your style instead. - Seasonal Shades
Pale greys, tans, and soft blues complement the outdoor setting and can look classic and stylish with an effortless flair.
Commenting ahead of this year’s event, David Bagley, co-founder of Salon Privé, said:
“From the beginning, Salon Privé has been about more than extraordinary cars, it’s about creating an atmosphere that feels special from the moment you step through the gates of Blenheim Palace. Dressing for the occasion plays a huge part in that magic. It’s not about formality for formality’s sake but about preserving a sense of occasion in a world that moves ever faster.
“When guests arrive looking their best, it transforms the entire event. There’s an energy, an elegance and a shared appreciation for craftsmanship, whether that’s in a perfectly tailored blazer or a hand-finished motorcar. We see it as a celebration of style in all its forms.”
Salon Privé runs from Wednesday 27th – Sunday 31st August 2025. Tickets across the entire week are priced from £55 for entry only, up to £645 for luxury hospitality.
