MAXINE GORDON has some tips on how to get a head start in the fashion stakes at York races...

IF you want to turn heads at the races here's a top tip - get yourself a hat. Designer dresses and chic suits are de rigueur for a day at York racecourse, which hosts its first meeting of the season from May 13-15.

But there is nothing like a fantastic piece of head sculpture to help you romp home in the fashion stakes.

Seasoned race-goers know that nothing beats wearing a grand piece of art on your head to help you stand out in the champagne bar. And it also helps your mate or date spot you in the crowd - particularly useful when it's their shout at the bar.

Novices may be nervous of wearing a hat, which is understandable because few occasions these days call for such a flamboyant accessory. But a day at the races affords the perfect opportunity to indulge in a frivolous piece of fun fashion.

While hats can be expensive, many outlets also run a hire service, allowing you to pick the creation of your dreams at a fraction of the price.

Good starting points are Felicity Hat Hire, Clarence Street, York; Get Ahead Hats on the A59 just outside York, and Ladies Day in Tadcaster Road.

There are some golden rules to follow when choosing a hat. Here's our guide to success in the Hat Wearing Handicap:

- If at first you don't succeed, try and try again.

Don't be afraid to try on everything in the shop. Because we are not used to wearing hats, few of us know instinctively what suits us. So be prepared to go through the whole range in search of the right one.

- Always try a hat on with your outfit.

What is the point of hunting for a hat while you are in your gym gear or jeans? When you go hat shopping, take your outfit with you, Most shops have a changing room where you can slip into your racing outfit - it's the only way to know for sure what hat will work on the day.

- Remember, larger women will look bigger in a smaller hat.

Choosing the right hat is all about balance; certain styles go better with specific body types. There's no such thing as one style suits all, so again, be prepared to try on a wide selection to find the one for you. And remember shop staff will be able to guide you to the styles that suit your shape and height.

- If you have had an outfit made, keep an extra half a metre of material to be incorporated into a hat for that perfect combination.

This is the best way to ensure a match between your hat and outfit. An alternative is to have a hat hand-dyed to match your outfit. Ask your milliner whether they offer this service.

- Give yourself enough time to find exactly what you want.

Choosing a hat can be time-consuming - but fun, so give yourself plenty of time to find one you are 100 per cent happy with.

- If you are having your hair done for your big day, make sure to take your hat with you to the hairdressers.

There's no point having an elaborate hairdo if it is going to be flattened or covered up by your hat. Likewise, if your hair - or some of it, at least - is on show, then your stylist knows what they have to work with.

York's racing season opens this month with a three-day meeting at Knavesmire from May 13-15. For more information telephone 01904 620911

Stockists:

Get Ahead Hats, Dutton Farm, Harrogate Road, York. Tel: 01904 738656

Felicity Hat Hire, 68 Clarence Street, York. Tel: 643477

Ladies Day, 86 Tadcaster Road, York. Tel: 01904 703405

Updated: 08:47 Saturday, May 03, 2003