If you’re heading for Royal Ascot, here’s your best bet for sartorial one-upmanship – because that’s what it’s all about.

It’s time to dust off that top hat because Royal Ascot, the most prestigious event in the British horseracing calendar, begins today. And, as any racing enthusiast knows, away from the track, the real competition is a sartorial one. The gentlemen parading the enclosures will be sporting glossy coats and finely groomed manes to rival the noblest of racing steeds, so if you want to stand a chance of winning in the style stakes, you’ll need to follow a few simple rules. Different enclosures have different dress codes, so check these before you go. Regardless of where your ticket takes you, a safe bet is a sharp suit, shirt and tie, and some shoes polished to perfection. Scroll down for a fail-safe look to help you take the lead on the day.

First things first: you need a good suit. Whether you’re entertaining clients or hedging your bets on a dark horse, you need to look like you mean business – which is where our Kingsman collection comes in. This double-breasted blazer, designed exclusively for MR PORTER, is sure to command attention, with its striking Prince of Wales check and peak lapels. Continue the best-of-British vibe with a crisp white shirt from London shirt-maker Turnbull & Asser, also created especially for us.

It’s safest with a smart dress code to wear a matching jacket and trousers. This pair benefits from adjustable waist tabs that do away with the need for a belt. Make sure you’re well-shod for the event by paying close attention to your shoe colour. If you’ve read our suit and shoe guide, you’ll know that grey works best with brown, so these pebble-grain Oxford brogues from traditional English shoemaker George Cleverley should get you off on the right foot.

Sporting pursuits are often a close-run thing. It all comes down to the fine details, so don’t let your accessories hold you back. This is one of those rare occasions where a tie is absolutely necessary, and this silk jacquard one, made in England by Drake’s, will pull the look together and add another dash of British flair with its patriotic palette. A stylish pair of shades is essential in the sunshine to help you keep an eye on the competition. Artisanal optician Cubitts understands what it takes to make a winner, and these tortoiseshell round frames have been put through their paces during 50 different stages of production. All you need now is a bit of luck.