Ascot Racecourse has opened the 2024 Royal Ascot Fashion Design Competition, targeting Berkshire-based schools and design colleges.

This year's competition will again partner with LK Bennett, who will provide the winning student with work experience at their London headquarters.

The competition aims to give young designers, aged 15 and above, an opportunity to break into the fashion and textiles industry.

Last year, Iola Gilder, 15 from Garth Hill College in Bracknell, won the competition wearing a stunning dress and hat she designed.

The dress was manufactured by LK Bennett and the hat was by Sarah Marshall at John Boyd Hats.

Entrants are to create an outfit that fits with Ascot's Queen Anne Enclosure dress code, inspired by the 2023 Royal Ascot Look Book.

The winner will work with LK Bennett on their Autumn Winter 2025 Coat Collection, appear on Ascot TV during Royal Ascot 2024, and their design will be manufactured by LK Bennett.

The winning student's institution will also receive £500 for their fashion department.