Tradition is always in style at the races, and the spring racing carnival fashions are no exception. Lady-like dresses in modest silhouettes are long-time favourites and this year’s racegoers will be spoiled for choice with the current trend towards feminine frocks. Lace, soft pastels and sheer detailing will be out in force along with pretty pleats in mid length skirts and drop waisted dresses.
Turn back the clock
The decade of hippie chic is being revisited on the catwalks and that same vibe will be reflected trackside with ladies wearing the 70s on their bell, ruched or flared sleeves. Pantsuits and wide leg trousers also ruled the runway at the David Jones Spring Racewear launch, and the look will be emulated at the races, while fringe detailing is also enjoying a moment and may get a run.
No thorns in these roses
Fresh floral headpieces will be the pick of the millinery bunch this year. The crown-style fascinators embraced so enthusiastically in 2015 (Game of Thrones anyone?) are being taken to the next level with Melbourne florists working around the clock creating bespoke pieces for clients.
From simple and sweet garlands to bold and regal high crowns there are options to suit all styles. And there’s no danger of being caught wearing the same headpiece twice.
The fashion-forward will be stepping out in a brim. From preppy boater styles with jaunty ribbons to more eclectic downturned “lampshade” styles, proper hats are enjoying a return to favour.
Less is always more
Some trends are best left for the after party. If we’re lucky we won’t be seeing any bold cut outs, underwear as outerwear and latex couture (thanks Kim K) trackside.
No mean ‘feet’
It doesn’t matter if you are sipping Moet in a marquee or knocking back a Savvy B on the public lawn, a day at the races involves a lot of standing around and walking. Ladies who don’t want to be hobbling, or worse yet barefoot, by the main race will still be on trend in chunky block heels, mules, metallic loafers or quirky flats.
Suits are odds on
Unless you’re aiming for an appearance in that zany montage of racegoers at the end of the nightly TV news, the suit is the only real option for the guys. A well-tailored classic two piece in charcoal, grey or navy with crisp shirt in white, powder blue or pale pink and tie with a traditional pattern is always a winner, but race days also offer a chance to flirt with bold colour and mix-up the accessories.
Check out the blokes
This year’s best dressed punters will be sporting checks, with the window check favoured in classic two pieces or mismatched separates. The British style will be taken up a notch with the return of the waistcoat in single and double-breasted options. The boys used to have access to a cupboard full of ties but workplaces are far more casual than two decades ago. The skinny tie is on the way out for the races, but not quite back to kipper-size just yet.
Making a statement
In terms of spring racing carnival fashions, block colours are not just for the girls. The gents will shine this year in jewel tones such as emerald, ruby, sapphire and amethyst. If you really can’t stomach a suit, a sports jacket paired with a lighter coloured pair of trousers is also acceptable trackside attire. The gents are also giving the ladies a run for their money in the hat department. Panamas and fedoras were the titfer of choice in 2015, and this year the boater will join them.
