Spring Racing Fashion and Dress Codes
Champagne, thoroughbred horses and fabulous fashion – we are off to the races!
Spring racing has arrived and I’m not talking about the horses, I’m here for the fashion!
Actually, if it weren’t for the fashion, I probably wouldn’t attend at all 🙂
I’m typing this post with so much anticipation as the races bring a burst of excitement to our city. It’s a wonderful feeling to be surrounded by so much beauty from the amazingly dressed people, the manicured gardens, abundance of flowers and yes the grandeur of the racehorses themselves.
While there are suggested dress codes for race days, it’s all about stepping up your style game. For women, it’s also a day where we can don dramatic headwear – there are not too many other occasions to do this.
For the gentlemen, it’s wonderful to see them suited up. The suit is slowly dying in many workplaces so we don’t see it as often as we would like – or I would like 🙂
Now, I always end up going to more race days than anticipated but this year, I’ll also be doing some spring racing fashion events and naturally, you are so warmly invited!
I have been contracted by Veronika Maine and Cue for their Spring Racing styling nights at Chadstone. I’ll be roving about giving styling advice from 6 to 9pm at Veronika Maine on Thursday October 29th and Cue Friday 30th October. There will be a 20 per cent in-store discount plus champagne and nibbles.
You don’t need to be looking for a spring racing outfit to attend, if you need an outfit for any occasion then come along!
Okay, so if you’re flying solo to create your look, let me help you along with dress codes for the Melbourne Cup Carnival and some race day tips:
DRESS CODES
Derby Day: This day (my personal favourite) represents my most coveted colour combinations: Black/white or black and white.
Colour blocking will remain a classic but to change it up this year, stripes are making a big impact as is all white.
To make the all-white look or plain black look a little more interesting, why not bring in a heel in a graphic print or an “all mesh” heel. You can work the same colours/materials into your headpiece or other accessories.
This is the day for me that is the most simple to put together and always looks incredibly stylish.
Cup Day: Traditionally this day is all about colour and this seasons colour palettes are not letting us down!
Cup Day is a day to “dress to impress” but is also about showcasing your individual style and bringing out your personality through your look. So wear your favourite colours, dress up your every day style and it’s also the perfect opportunity to work in a trend piece.
This year, I’m expecting to see some 70’s inspired looks and patterns and you can even try this season’s nautical style.
Bold headpieces and quirky coloured sunglasses will be the key accessories to add to the WOW of your look! Don’t be surprised if you find ladies wearing gold crowns – yes – royalty-inspired headwear is in. Check out Viktoria Novak at Myer for ideas.
Oaks Day: Ladies Day or Blokes Day. There is so much to choose from this season as pastels are out in full force!
If you are not into pastels, you can opt for neutrals/whites and florals instead. If your dress feels a little too simple, bring more softness in through your fascinator.
One of the strongest colours this season is pink – not the fuchsia kind, the gelato or dusty pink kind. This is a beautiful colour to work with a soft grey.
Now florists are also getting in on the action and creating fresh floral headpieces for race-goers. Check out your local florist if they can create something unique for the day just for you.
Emirates Stakes Day: This is your more relaxed family day and also calls for a more low-key look.
Still dress for the occasion, but you can perhaps wear a smaller headpiece or classic wide brimmed hat with a summer maxi dress or two-piece ensemble.
It’s also an opportunity for the little ones to showcase their style.
RACE DAY TIPS
What would a fashion event be without fashion tips (and warnings :))
- Opt for a platform or wedge shoe to ensure all day comfort and avoid a muddy stiletto heel;
- Think of your clutch as your emergency kit: Tissues, Band-Aids and sunscreen at a minimum;
- A shoulder strap is an easier alternative to a hand clutch;
- A short tight skirt looks more nightclub than stylish day at the races;
- Remember, you want to end your day as you felt and looked at the start of your day ……ELEGANT!
- Do not remove your heels! Need I say more?
- If you do wear a heel, practice wearing them. There is nothing worse than watching a woman attempt to walk in a heel so practice around the house;
- Have a backup outfit – A and B. The weather can dictate what you wear as can how you feel on the day so give yourself an alternative;
- Race Day does not mean you need to be penniless putting an outfit together. Reinvent an old favourite or head to Target/Valley Girl and K-Mart who have simple dresses that oh so reasonably priced, then just add accessories;
- Buy with the intent to rewear. This year opulent headbands are making a huge impact and if bought carefully could be re-worn at BBQ’s with a pretty top or maxi dress.
Finally, we have of course searched through some of the shops at Chadstone to give you a brief snapshot of what’s on offer for the Spring Racing Season.
Remember that a dress can look quite plain on the hanger, but with heels, hair and makeup and of course accessories, your look will be created! Just try it on.
So for the racegoers, I hope you have a fabulous time and as always, we are always available to help put your Spring Racing look together with our Personal Shopping service.
If I don’t see you at our Chadstone styling events, I hope to see you trackside. If you do see me, please say hi! 🙂
Jackie Green says
Gorgeous and great post, I love Spring and the Races… Love the Ted Baker dresses, and Portmans ( Derby Day ) and Forever New… Giddy Up hope you back a winner x
Cindy Newstead says
Thanks Jackie 🙂 I hope you have some luck at the races too!! X
Annette says
Wow, Cindy your in colour!!! You look beautiful in the red lace Ted Baker dress! We all want you to buy it, & Ted Baker wants you to buy it! Love it : ) x
Cindy Newstead says
Hi Annette! Yes I’m in colour 🙂 Thank you,its a beautiful dress isn’t it?! X