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Goodwood Revival isn’t just about purring vintage cars and glistening classic motorcycles. Its time-warp atmosphere includes the rare David Niven moustache and — how could we forget? — some glittering examples of period dress.

The festival revives a bygone era when beautiful people in beautiful clothes came to watch other beautiful people in beautiful clothes, so if you’re joining the Revival this season, what to wear may be one of the biggest conundrums: half (if not all) the fun is in the dressing-up. So indulge in genuine 1940s stockings, slip into hourglass post-war skirts and swathe lips with lashings of ruby lipstick — it’s not every day you get the chance, ladies.

For men at Revival, this is the chance to release the inner war hero — army, navy or RAF. Alternatively, think Cary Grant sophistication in blazer, flannels and the ubiquitous panama.

The most important thing to remember is exactly which era is being evoked. Goodwood Revival relives the glory days of the motor circuit from 1948 to 1966, meaning post-war uniforms, bright colours and extreme shapes of the Swinging Sixties — choice aplenty.

For women, there are two main categories to choose from: the demure 1950s (think Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn) and the extrovert 1960s (think Dusty Springfield and Twiggy). Fifties shapes are simple: cinch the waist of any dress or skirt-and-top combination you already own, or buy a vintage number that defines the figure.

Alternatively try the high street. Celia Birtwell, for instance, used to work alongside Ossie Clark and has now produced a collection of pretty, floaty dresses for Topshop (www.topshop.co.uk), using designs from her 1960s archive.

Then, go big on the accessories. A veiled pillbox hat is too good to turn down. The hatmakers Stephen Jones (www.stephenjonesmillinery.com ), Philip Treacy (www.philiptreacy.co.uk ) and Cozmo Jenks (www.cozmojenks.co.uk ) are the three most renowned in the UK. You could try some elbow-length leather gloves in shades of jade, plum or chocolate (Dents; www.dents.co.uk ) or genuine silk stockings from Funn Stockings (0870 881 0560) for that irresistible seductive elegance.

Men have two principal options for Revival dress: vintage suits or military uniforms. Scouring local charity shops can often provide some hidden gems. Alternatively, Bookster, the vintage tweed specialists (www.tweed-jacket.com ), can provide all your suiting needs, while Savvy Row (www.savvy row.co.uk ) offers a broader range of classic men’s clothes from the 1920s to the 1960s.

You don’t need to sign up to get hold of a military uniform. Either contact your local fancy-dress outlet or try Spitfire Snobbery for RAF uniform hire from the 1950s and 1960s (01252 664 481). Greycar (www.greycar.com ) is the best place to pick up vintage motoring kit.

Finally, if it comes to the day and your outfit is looking a little more 21st than mid-20th century, worry not. The Revival Exhibition Market is filled with stands selling vintage accessories and clothes. Take your cue from the well-dressed visitors around you, and revive a little of that period glamour — you might just find you like it.

For more Goodwood fashion go to www.timesonline.co.uk/driving

DO'S AND DON'TS FOR FAILSAFE FASHION

DO

Wear a uniform if you’re a woman. Land Girl and military nurse uniforms are just as popular as 1950s and 1960s feminine styles.

Dress up on Ladies’ Day (Saturday 20 September). There’s a prize for the best-dressed.

Finish the look off with authentic silk stockings from the Motor Circuit Shop.

Wear sensible shoes — you’re on your feet all day, walking on grass.

DON’T

Get the wrong era. Psychedelic shirts and flares are more 1970s than 1960s.

Wear anything too extravagant or out of your comfort zone. Choose something that reflects your everyday style.

Bare too much flesh. As with the cars, keep the clothes classic.

Forget the umbrella. After all, it’s the end of the British summer and you don’t want to be a wash-out.

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