Full Speed Ahead For Goodwood Revival

There are few occasions in life – save for the occasional Halloween party or Comic Con – where adults are encouraged to dress up. But one unique event in the social calendar that combines nostalgic escapism, world-class racing and good old-fashioned fancy dress is the Goodwood Revival; the revered annual homage to vintage motor cars and style.

Having said that, the term “fancy dress” may not sit well with Revival regulars. Authenticity is paramount to Revival, which honours the original lifespan of the Goodwood Motor Circuit (1948-1966). On 18 September 1998, exactly half a century after the Goodwood Circuit first opened, the current Earl of March (Charles Henry Gordon-Lennox) re-enacted the opening of the track staged by his grandfather, the 9th Earl of March, and thus the Goodwood Revival was born.

The Goodwood Revival is the world’s only motorsport event to be staged entirely in period dress and no modern cars are allowed within the circuit on race days. As such, participants are encouraged to dress appropriately in the fashions of the 1940s, ’50s or ’60s, sometimes with nods to period themes, stars of the day and characters such as Carnaby Girls, Café Racers and Teddy Boys.

‘Put simply, the Goodwood Revival is the only place in the world where you can enjoy historic racing entirely in period. It’s so authentic – and more importantly, fun,’ says motoring broadcaster David Green, who presents coverage of the event every year.

This year’s Goodwood Revival (6-8 September) is sure to be another unforgettable one, setting out to top the extra-special 2023 festival, which not only saw the event turn 25, but the motor circuit itself celebrate its 75th anniversary, along with luxury British marque Lotus.

For 2024, the festival will commemorate 80 years since the D-Day landings with an awe-inspiring display of more than 100 vehicles, all of which took part in the monumental World War II turning point. For the military minded, there’s a ground assault of painstakingly restored tanks and vehicles, while the skies are awakened each morning with a dawn patrol of Spitfires. Perhaps most impressively, the fleet also includes an original D-Day anti-submarine boat which safely transported troops and armoured machinery to Normandy’s shores.

It’s all well and good knowing what to expect at the Goodwood Revival, but the most important question is, of course, what to wear. Understanding the assignment without reverting to cliché is a delicate balance. The best course of action is to do your research and nail the fine details.

 ‘For menswear at Revival, there are a few go-to looks,’ advises Green. ‘Go for period racewear, formal suits in wool or tweed, or you can venture down the military route with period uniform. I gravitate towards the 1940s because it’s the furthest era from the present day. It also reminds me how much smarter the average man was dressed back then – and that’s no bad thing.’

The official Goodwood Revival website provides some sartorial inspiration and guides, and the three-day event itself hosts second-hand markets, talks, sewing classes and workshops. You can even book an appointment with the on-site Goodwood Barber for a traditional trim and hairstyle. It’s worth making the effort, as a short-list of guests, invited by a panel of fashion experts, could be in with a chance to win Best Dressed.

Once you pick your time period, stay in your lane and do your research. Sharp tailoring and heritage fabrics are essential elements to getting the look just right. A crisp white shirt is usually the foundation of your ensemble (try our Royal Oxford or Classic Fit Formal Textured Dobby Shirt), maybe paired with a paisley print, Prince of Wales check or striped tie. Teddy Boys of the 1950s were a subversion of Edwardian romanticism, with tailored velvet blazers (available in-store at 106 Jermyn Street), skinny ties and button-down shirts. If you’re going for a more contemporary Mod look, invest in one of our micro or Tattersall Check print shirts. Don’t be afraid of colour and texture to really lean into the theme and embrace the Revival spirit.

Goodwood Revival takes place from 6-8 September 2024