The pouts and poses will be just as important as the hats and heels on Tuesday.
Race goers will be using social media rather than a stylist to elevate their look and the Victorian Racing Club is doing all it can to encourage the trend.
Its clotheshorse for this year’s Myer Fashions on the Field is Stephanie Smith, described by the club as a Melbourne “IT girl” and “Instagram-famous model”.
Quite a departure from the 2015 Fashions on the Field ambassador Georgia Connolly who competed as an equestrian eventer, or 2013’s ambassador Rebecca Bramich who had studied a Senior Horsemasters Course.
The VRC says Smith suits Flemington’s new precinct – The Park.
Created with the 18-35 age group in mind The Park includes a supersized Myer Fashions on the Field enclosure, live entertainment, restaurant pop-ups and four bars.
It carries the tagline “Eat Drink Dress-Up and Dance” and is located on the hill adjacent to the train station.
Purists will no doubt be offended that the only horses park visitors are likely to see will be ones on the vintage carousel within the precinct.
Despite these changes the VRC has not loosened the reins on its dress code.
Race goers will be expected to follow the rules, which include no crop-tops, no cutouts, obligatory ties and socks for the men.
Smith says while outfits needed to be classic and polished, it was possible to achieve that with a modern look.
“A lot of people assume race wear is just about girly dresses in classic shapes, but these days it’s a lot more than that,” she said on her Myer blog.
“Pants are a great option for the races – I love a chic cigarette leg trouser paired with a fitted blazer or a beautiful palazzo pant worn with a delicate lace top.
“The options are endless, so don’t feel confined to only dresses.”
Smith also encouraged race goers to embrace their inner rainbow for the running of the Melbourne Cup.
“If there was ever a time to wear colour, it’s at the Melbourne Cup Carnival. I always love wearing red, as it’s a simple way to really make a statement with your look.”
“If wearing a solid block colour is a little too much for you, try adding coloured accessories to a neutral dress.”
Ladies hoping to emulate Smith’s style, which has garnered her one million Instagram followers, should look to her favourite labels, which include Asilio, By Johnny and Misha Collection.
Last year’s celebrities certainly got the memo with all the big names choosing bold colours for the race that stops a nation.
Jennifer Hawkins was almost blinding in neon yellow, Megan Gale turned heads in a vibrant green lace mini dress and Emma Freedman stood out in a red tuxedo suit.
But Ashley Hart outdid them all in an eclectic skirt and blouse combination that mixed stripes, Scottish tartan and Indian inspired prints in red, blue green and yellow.
She topped it off with giant pom pom earrings and a husband dressed in a three-piece suit with each element created from a different fabric.
Of course creating the perfect kaleidoscope is no use if you can’t share it online, so remember to charge your phone before you leave home.
If your battery doesn’t go the distance, Flemington has eight free recharge stations in the public area.
They are suitable for Apple and Android devices and some cameras.
