Race Day Ready: How to Recreate This Iconic Pretty Woman Hairstyle

If there’s one thing we know, it’s that Pretty Woman is the fashion fairytale we all needed growing up. And no moment from the film screams ‘icon’ louder than Julia Roberts at the races – giving us ladylike glam in that unforgettable brown and white polka dot dress, oversized hat, and an updo so polished it had 90s Rodeo Drive gasping. 

Yes, we’re talking about THAT race day scene, and we’re about to spill all the tea on how to channel your inner Vivian Ward. Whether you’re Ascot-bound or just race-day dreaming, here’s how to steal Julia Roberts' look this summer.

Polka Dots & Power Moves

Julia’s chocolate brown midi dress with white polka dots is arguably one of the most recognisable pieces in film fashion history, breaking the internet long before the internet existed. It’s demure, it’s darling, and it still works decades later. This look is hot, powerful, and proof that great style never goes out of fashion; it just changes postcode. 

Lucky for us, the high street is brimming with lookalikes. Head to Zara or Mango for polka dot dresses without whispering "bank overdraft." Want to turn heads at Ascot or the Chester Races? Opt for a belted silhouette to cinch the waist, keep it midi for sophistication, and let the print do the talking. 

Pair it with cream or tan stilettos (or maybe block heels if you’re in it for the long haul), and of course, the pièce de résistance: a wide-brimmed hat. You can find similar styles at John Lewis or ASOS. Add a ribbon around the middle of the hat in a matching hue for that finishing touch. 

The Hair: Updo Royalty

Julia Roberts curly hair has always been the epitome of curly hair goals, but this race day scene gave us a sleeker version of her usual bounce. And yet, even with the curls tucked away, her locks were still soft, voluminous, and deeply feminine. 

To recreate this classy updo, start by using our Moisturising Silky Spray on dry hair to hydrate and prep. Your strands will drink up this pre-glam potion like it’s a tall glass of champagne. Remember to always add a spritz or two of our Heat Protectant Spray before styling, because fried hair at the races is a definite no-no, especially if you want to protect your extensions in the summer sun.  

Next, create a soft blowout for that smooth base (or cheat with some clip-in hair extensions for added length and volume). Roll the hair into a low chignon or French twist, leaving a few face-framing tendrils to stay flirty. Secure with some clips or pins, and voilà, race day royalty. 

If you’re working with natural curls or love Julia Roberts with curly hair, you can still create a curly updo with the help of some curly clip in extensions. Our Remy hair extensions are designed to blend seamlessly and enhance your natural texture, so don’t worry about anyone sussing you out. Let a few springy curls bounce around the front, and you’re ready to go. 

Here's some of our favourite homages to Julia (and Vivian) at the races:

More Race Day Hair and Outfit Inspo 

The Modern Meghan

If Duchess chic is your aesthetic and you’ve got your sights set on royalty, then this look is all about glamour with a whisper of rebellion.  

Start by detangling your hair and sectioning it into a centre part with a pintail comb. Clip in our seamless extensions, ensure that they’re completely blended. Craft your locks into a low ponytail and secure loosely with a hair tie, before folding the other half into a loose bun. Take the remaining pieces of hair either side of the bun and twist them around it in a delicate and flattering way. Pull out some face framing pieces and smooth out any stray hairs. Want more volume? Add a set of silky ponytail clip in hair extensions.  

Pair this hairstyle with a tailored midi dress and a wide headband or fascinator, and you’ll be giving off “I could totally marry into royalty (and then create my own brand)” energy. This one is ideal for long days on the racecourse that turn into longer nights, allowing you to let your hair down into a voluminous pony. 

The Soft Glam Socialite

If you're more “VIP lounge with bottomless Prosecco” than betting on random horses, then this final look is your calling card. Inspired by the It-girls of Insta, this style serves camera-ready curls and major bounce. 

Start by curling your hair using a large-barrel curling iron. And for that soft, touchable finish, detangle and brush out the curls once they’ve cooled with a wave comb. Add some clip in extensions for an even bigger effect – the more drama, the better. 

And if your hair needs a little more longevity? Consider having permanent hair extensions installed like nano rings or tape ins. Our permanent extensions blend seamlessly with your natural hair and make every flip, twirl, and hair toss totally worth it. 

Finish with a centre part or loose side part, grab some oversized sunnies, and pair it with a silky slip dress and statement earrings. 

Need more race day inspo? Check out last year’s top trends for Ascot and steal some looks for the racing season ahead from our blog: This Year's Hottest Ascot Hairstyles. 

Conclusion:

If you’re ready to channel those Pretty Woman hairstyles, remember this: hair for the races should feel as fabulous as you do. With the right styling tools, your favourite clip in hair extensions or professional hair extensions, and Cliphair’s holy grail Moisturising Silky Spray and Heat Protectant Spray, you're officially race day ready. 

So don’t just show up. Make an entrance with some award-winning, Cliphair-approved Ascot hair. Because in the wise words of Vivian Ward: “People put you down enough, you start to believe it… I’m not gonna let that happen again.” And neither should your hair!