There’s no such thing as a sure bet when it comes to Melbourne weather. And that old saying “Don’t like the weather? Just wait five minutes”, was most likely coined in spring. The only way to counter the sports capital’s unpredictable climate is to be prepared for anything….and pack an umbrella!
Layer upon layer
Staying stylish trackside can be problematic, but Melbourne Cup Week fashion just takes some planning. Most race days start early and finish late so a jacket or light- weight coat will offset a cool morning- at either end of the adventure. Borrowing your partner’s suit jacket when the weather heads south is a no-no, so plan to take your own option. Keep proportions in mind when adding a coat to ensure the whole look is consistent. You don’t want that extra layer to look like an after thought. Mid-length skirts or dresses with a pencil skirt look best with a short tailored coat or jacket. If you’re wearing a full skirt look for a short coat or jacket with a defined waist. And a tuxedo blazer will take your jumpsuit to the next level.
In the trenches
A trench is the perfect option and is always in style. There are myriad colours and cuts in stores at the moment, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find something to suit your style and budget. Just watch the length. If it finishes above the knee, your skirt should be longer than the coat to avoid looking like you have nothing on underneath! The downside to a trench is that it covers most of your outfit, which isn’t ideal if you keep it on all day. Consider wearing it open with the belt tied loosely behind your back, or replace the belt with a scarf that ties in colours from your headpiece
Here comes the sun
What do you do with those extra layers when the sun makes an appearance? Flemington has free cloakrooms available for all racegoers throughout Cup Week. They are located in both the members and public areas. If you forget to collect your items at the end of the meeting, they will be held for 30 days and can be picked up on other race days, or between 8.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.
Hold on to your hats
Unless you want to spend the day chasing your hat, spend some time making sure it is secure before you leave home. Quality pieces generally have built in anchors, such as combs, fascinator clips, elastics and even Velcro strips. Look for these additions when buying your headwear and figure out how they work before the wind picks up. A simple up do provides more options for attaching your headpiece and is easier to control on the day. Finish the hairstyle with a dry spray wax (before adding the hat!) to protect against wind and rain and slip some bobby pins into your bag for emergency adjustments.
Keep it clean
A beautiful pair of satin or fabric pumps won’t look so pretty when they have been trudging through mud. Leather is much easier to clean and can even be spruced up trackside with a baby wipe. No matter the forecast, always apply a water proofing spray at least 24 hours ahead of time. It will protect against grass stains on neutral coloured shoes and spilled beverages.
Always wear sunscreen
Never skip this step of your preparation. You can still get burnt on a cloudy day. Use an SPF moisturiser on your face neck and ears and a quality, lightweight sunscreen for your legs, arms and shoulders. Melt proof make up and waterproof mascara is also a good idea.
Betfair:
Bet on Henrik Stenson to become the BMW PGA Championship Winner.
Paddypower:
Back Australia to take the Ashes home with them.
Betway:
Back Rafael Nadal to become the Mens French Open Winner.
Coral:
Back One For Arthur to win the Grand National.
Bet365:
Back Mexico to win the Confederations Cup.
