Veuve oh Veuve, it’s what we love!

This past weekend, my friends and I attended the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic in sunny Los Angeles. It was everything you'd expect from a day of luxury: the champagne was flowing, the outfits were stunning, smiles were bright, and the horses added a perfect touch of elegance to the experience.

The Veuve Clicquot brand is known for its sophistication and style, and their events are no different. From the moment we decided to attend, a whirlwind of questions and planning ensued. From what to wear to how to get there, the preparation was as exciting as the event itself.

Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for this iconic event:

1. Secure Your Tickets Early

The Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic is a sought-after annual event, so securing tickets early is key. Tickets typically come in different tiers, ranging from general admission ($275 to $4,750) to VIP experiences ($575 -$8,750), which offer exclusive perks like premium seating, unlimited champagne, and access to private lounges. The most popular ticket group is the Garden Party or Rosé Garden ($575), it sells out immediately. Make sure to sign up for alerts to know when they go on sale, and grab your ticket as soon as possible.

2. Plan Your Look

One of the highlights of the Polo Classic is the fashion! The event has an unspoken dress code of chic, elevated, and playful elegance. Think pastels, florals, flowy dresses, fascinators, and statement sunglasses. You want to blend style with comfort, as you’ll likely be walking on grass and standing in the sun.

For my look, I opted for a long flowly floral dress that allowed me to stay cool while looking effortlessly polished. I paired it with a red pillow bag, red shoes and a burgundy lip to keep my look timeless but add a touch of fall. Don’t forget to bring comfortable, stylish shoes that are appropriate for a grassy venue. Wedges or block heels are perfect alternatives to stilettos, however if you are anything like me you still reach for the stilettos. So grab a pair of heel protectors to help with sinking in the grass.

3. Don’t Forget Your Essentials

Come prepared for the day. Here’s a quick checklist of items you will need:

Sunscreen (because it’s sunny, and you’ll thank yourself later)
Portable fan (especially for those hotter days)
Blotting papers (to keep your makeup fresh)
A light jacket or shawl (it can get cooler as the day winds down) — I didn’t bring one but it would probably be helpful.
Flat shoes (if you wear heels)

4. Get There Early

Plan to arrive early to make the most of your day. The Polo Classic typically has activities that kick off before the actual polo match, from live music performances to celebrity sightings. Arriving early also ensures you get a good spot or seating depending what ticket level you get.

(wristband to collect our bottles and food)

5. What to Expect the Day Of

Here’s a quick rundown of what the day looks like:

Arrival: Expect some traffic and crowds upon arrival. Most people arrive fashionably early, so plan ahead. If you're using rideshare services, there are designated drop-off zones and sometimes they have shuttles to take you to the actual location, so allow for extra time.
Event Atmosphere: The moment you step in, you’ll feel the energy of the event. Guests are dressed to the nines, the air is filled with the sounds of champagne corks popping, and the music sets a light, upbeat mood. You’ll want to take a moment to soak in the décor—everything from floral installations to chic lounges is designed to create a luxurious experience and photo opportunities.
Champagne & Bites: Expect plenty of champagne bars scattered across the event. You can purchase bottles or glasses to enjoy while mingling. Many ticket tiers also include gourmet food options, so you can snack while sipping your bubbly.

(the lunch provided with the "Garden Party")

The Polo Match: The main event! The polo match itself is an exciting spectacle, complete with players, horses, and cheering crowds. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the rules of polo, the atmosphere is fun and celebratory. There’s even a traditional halftime divot stomp, where guests get to walk onto the field, champagne in hand, to help repair the grass, get a close-up of the action and take pictures.

Celebrity Sightings: The Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic attracts a lot of A-listers, so keep your eyes peeled! You never know who you’ll run into or spot mingling in the VIP area.
Socializing & Networking: Beyond the polo, the event is all about socializing. You’ll meet people from all walks of life, many of whom attend the Polo Classic annually. It’s the perfect place to network or simply enjoy the company of new friends in a laid-back yet luxe setting.

6. Relax and Enjoy the Day

Once you're all set, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the day! The Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic is about celebrating the good life with good company. Whether you’re sipping champagne, watching the polo match, or simply people-watching, savor every moment of the luxurious experience.

Comparing the New York and LA Experiences

Having had the pleasure of attending both the New York and Los Angeles Veuve Clicquot Polo Classics, I can say that while the core elements remain the same—champagne, chic fashion, and a festive atmosphere—each city has its own unique vibe.

New York: The Polo Classic in New York, held at Liberty State Park, has a more classic East Coast elegance. The backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty adds an iconic, postcard-perfect touch. The atmosphere felt a bit more formal and refined, with a subtle but sophisticated energy running throughout the event. The floral displays were more abundant, increasing the photo opps.
Los Angeles: In contrast, the LA Polo Classic has a laid-back, effortlessly cool vibe. It’s still luxurious, but there’s a definite California flair—think light, breezy fashion and a more relaxed social environment. The LA location was a more quaint space which allowed the attendees to view the entire landscape as they enjoyed the event.

Both events offer an unforgettable experience, but the difference in each city's culture really shines through, making them unique in their own ways. Whether you're on the East Coast or West Coast, you'll be sipping champagne in style!

Veuve oh Veuve