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Deciphering Melbourne Cup Week Dress Codes

WITH 30 Group One races held across Melbourne and Sydney during the Spring Racing Carnival there are plenty of chances to frock up. But most fashionistas save their A-game for Flemington’s big four – Derby, Melbourne Cup, Oaks and Stakes. Each of the days has its own traditions and expressing them through fashion is all part of the fun.

Derby Day – make it monochrome

The Derby is the oldest classic race on the Victorian calendar – it was first contested in 1855, six years before the Melbourne Cup. Black and white reigns supreme and this is not the time to break with tradition. That doesn’t mean you can’t embrace modern trends. Pair a classic white lace dress with black headpiece, shoes and box clutch. Or adopt a minimalist look with an asymmetrical neckline. A bold one-shoulder dress in black or white works well with a wide brimmed hat and metallic accessories. There’s not a lot of wriggle room for the blokes. Black suit, white shirt, black tie (no bow) white pocket chief and black shoes is the uniform. A grey or charcoal suit would also pass but keep any other colour for later in the week. The perfect finishing touch is a blue cornflower in the lapel – the day’s signature flower.

Melbourne Cup – go big or go home

This is the race that stops a nation so there’s no room for wallflowers. Today is the day to bring the colour, the brighter and bolder the better. Vibrant pinks and reds are popular this season and prints also play well. Forget the fascinator and don a hat or dramatic headpiece instead. Opt for a piece that matches the colour of your outfit or something metallic. Men are also encouraged to flex their fashion muscle. While elegance is always the goal, there is no real dress code on this day, so now is the time to debut that royal blue suit or slip a loud checked shirt under a grey suit. Add a yellow rose and you’re good to go.

Oaks Day – pretty and polished

It’s called Ladies Day so you need to dress like one. Romantic florals, pastel pleats and delicate lace are the order of the day. A mid-length embroidered lace dress over a nude slip that finishes above the knee is on trend, while maintaining the feminine brief. Complete your Oaks Day look with a floral crown created from fresh blooms or simple headbands. The gents should follow the ladies’ lead with florals and pastels which work well with the day’s signature flower – the pink rose. Accessorise with a pocket square and tie with hints of florals, stripes, plaid or spots.

Stakes Day – let the offspring shine

The final day of Cup Week at Flemington is the most relaxed of the four meetings. Classic chic is the perfect look to bring to the garden party atmosphere. Children (suitably dressed of course!) are also encouraged, with the event also focussing on family. Women, especially those chasing after offspring, can achieve that relaxed glamour with a casual pants suit or a pair of culottes teamed with bodysuit and capelet. There’s also a more casual approach to millinery with raffia straw boaters and wide-brimmed hats. Dads can leave the suit in the cupboard for Monday and wear a navy sports blazer instead – which contrasts beautifully with the day’s signature red rose – and tan pants. They can still have some fun with colour by adding a bold shirt and tie. It’s also the day to make a statement with a fedora.

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