Royal Ascot takes to the catwalk

By Paul Majendie

ASCOT (Reuters) - With champagne corks popping around the catwalk, it is the perfect way to enjoy the latest fashions from top designers.

Royal Ascot, epitome of elegance for fashion-conscious racegoers, is for the first time staging daily fashion shows by leading names like Chloe and Kenzo.

"Fashion is synonymous with the royal meeting. Fashion is important for people who come here. It's natural to marry the two," said Ascot's director of sales and marketing Gary England.

So Royal Ascot decided to do it in style -- and at a price.

In its Bessborough Restaurant, the well-heeled clientele is treated to fashion shows over a sumptuous lunch.

So, in between the poached Canadian lobster and the slow-roast rump of lamb, they get to see the latest outfits from iconic British designer Vivienne Westwood and hats from milliner Philip Treacy.

To enjoy a feast of fashion, racegoers are happily forking out up to 700 pounds each for the privilege.

And for most of them, money is no object. The lunches have sold out for all five days of Royal Ascot, highpoint of Britain's hectic social calendar.