Ascot’s Ladies Day is traditionally a display of high fashion, statement hats and women determined to turn heads.

But in recent years the dress code has been slipping as the fairer sex decided that less is more when it comes to being noticed.

Now racing chiefs have decided the so called “chav-look” is just not good enough. So today they issued a dress code to prevent one of the social events of the season losing its cachet.

Mini-skirts are a no-go area in the new list of dos and don’ts for anyone hoping to enter the Royal Enclosure.

The list, which also warns that anyone wearing an off-the-shouder oufit will not be admitted, have been sent out with invitations to the VIP area.

There is also a stern policy on streaky fake tan lines amid claims they are a total fashion faux pas.

Formal attire has always been required for the Royal Enclosure and last year a ban on bare midriffs was introduced.

But traditionalists are still worried that there is too much flesh on show, often from women lacking a certain dignity after the champagne.

The 2008 dress code says that only formal day dress with a hat or substantial fascinator will be acceptable in the Royal Enclosure.

Off-the-shoulder outfits, halter-necks, spaghetti straps and dresses with a strap of less than one inch and/or mini-skirts are considered unsuitable, while midriffs must be covered and trouser suits have to be full-length.

By Tracey O’Sullivan