Social media feeds will be infiltrated with fashion and fillies for the next month with the spring racing season in full swing.
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This Saturday, thousands will flock to Royal Randwick for the world’s richest turf race, the $10 million Everest, or locally to Kembla Grange for the Disability Trust Race Day while more events are scheduled in the lead up to Melbourne Cup Day
For those wanting to dress to impress here are the fashions on trend for the turf club – for men and women – what head-wear is popular and suitable make-up to match.
STYLE
Heading to the races has historically been about the celebration of dressing up for a premier social occasion, according to the Australian Turf Club.
Men typically wear suits, though suspenders and bow-ties are also acceptable.
Ladies attire is generally more conservative and ladylike – hemlines no shorter than mid-thigh, longer sleeves and natural makeup.
We’re seeing a lot of lace and silk as well which is a big trend this season.
- Maryanne Barjel
Stylist for Stockland Shellhabour Maryanne Barjel said this year’s fashion was dominated by flower power or bold statements with the signature style of the 80s and 90s making a strong comeback.
“A lot of one-shoulder is really in, big puffy shoulders, frilled hems at the bottom,” Ms Barjel said.
“We are getting a lot of empty space within florals as well - lots of scattered floral like tiny floral within beautiful bold colours,” Ms Barjel
“Again bold colours but soft, muted tones – your mauves, pinks and soft colours. We’re seeing a lot of lace and silk as well which is a big trend this season.”
She said head-gear was a must with the focus shifting back to hats and fascinators as they “take centre stage”.
Men should equally make the effort – so forget the chinos – but choose a suit that’s comfortable and preferably not the one you wear to the office. Different shades of blue are on trend this season, not just navy.
HEADWEAR
“The races are a woman's opportunity to bring out her inner beauty in style and imagination. It's the one day that she can let her creativity go wild and be as bold as her inner self allows,” said accessories designer Tammy-Lee Ramsay.
The Wollongong mother-of-three began creating intricate fascinators during time out for pregnancies and is now full-time with her Doily DeLightz business with orders coming in from all around the country.
Her best-sellers this year include flower crowns with a matching lapel for the partner, statement crowns plus delicate and detailed crowns. Tulle, lace, rose gold and platinum are also popular.
Block heels are the best [option] so you don't sink into the grass and foldable ballet slippers that fit into your clutch for the trip home.
- Tammy-Lee Ramsay
She said simple yet stunning are wreath crowns, bird cage veils and wide brim hats; yearly favourites included big, bold flowers and lace statement pieces.
“Choose millinery that represents you, be yourself and most off all something [you’ll be] comfortable in all day,” Ms Ramsay said.
“Block heels are the best [option] so you don't sink into the grass and foldable ballet slippers that fit into your clutch for the trip home.”
MAKE-UP
Like the outfit, one’s face should not scream they’re heading to Fever nightclub but instead be more demure – a less is more approach.
Thirroul make-up artist Sara McGlaughlin said a daytime look at the races should be natural to compliment the bold and bright outfits.
“Think a bronzed complexion that illuminates your skin… keep your make-up look simple and soft so your main statement is the dress,” Mrs McGlaughlin said.
“Bold brows are on trend right now and this is important as your brows frame the face.”
Her style inspirations to follow include models Jennifer Hawkins and Stephanie Claire Smith because “they never go bold lips, they just keep it very soft”.
A special thank you to the Visual Merchandising team at Myer and Sheike at Stockland Shellharbour for their assistance.