Fashion: Spring racing

Natalie Chan Claudette in Scarlet Hat $720.

Your guide to nailing your look at the races.

Spring racing season has begun so it's time to get your glam on and head out in style. The Melbourne Cup is only a couple of days away so there's no better excuse to get frocked up. Naturally, the big day is about horse racing and having a party but admit it, it's also about the fabulous fashion trackside.

This is your ultimate chance to wow everyone with a bold and daring ensemble. Go all out and push the fashion envelope by making a dramatic statement. Once you confidently own a look, you're half-way there.

Fashion-forward fillies think bold prints and bright, electric colour combos that pop. This year, we'll see all the biggest trends of the new season: from 70s influences with a nod to bohemian chic (think lashings of fringing) to on-trend sports-luxe styling.

Dramatic statement headwear continues to dominate with a strong move towards crowns and headbands made out of lace, leather or metal, creating a modern vision.

Without a doubt, great headwear is the piece de resistance. I love Natalie Chan's gorgeous "Claudette in Scarlet" hat, a perfect choice for Melbourne Cup day, where it's all about making a striking fashion statement.

Trelise Cooper's fun Bent Out of Tape dress hits the nail on the head when it comes to winning the style stakes. This bright and quirky showstopper is bound to make heads turn.

Celebrate the day in Ted Baker's floral Youma dress. Colour block with fab accessories and you'll instantly stand out from the other punters.

Karen Millen's Dot print pleated dress is an eye-catching, versatile choice. Team it with to-die-for accessories and your look will be odds on.

Go graphic with the Diprinti dress by Hugo Boss. Pair with killer accessories and get noticed.

For a more minimal look try Black Halo's Carissa dress. Chic metallic accessories add the finishing touch.

Trelise Cooper Bent Out Of Tape Dress $699
Ted Baker Youma dress $389
Karen Millen Dot print dress $395
Boss Diprinti dress $1199 From Hugo Boss
Black Halo Carissa dress $599
BCBG Max Azria Dee Clutch bag $99 All from Glamour Boutique

The Line Up: Race-day must-have accessories:

I adore the drama of this stunning Twisted Raceday hat by Marmalade Hats.

An amazing shoe and a glamorous bag always go hand in hand. Louis Vuitton's Symphony sandals and Chain Louise bag are the ultimate dynamic duo.

SRK Millinery's Royal hat is an elegant symphony of blue and taupe.

Statement headpieces are a huge trend. Mimco's ethereal Aphrodite's Halo headpiece will bring out your true inner Grecian goddess. As long as you always bring your fashion "A" game, you can do no wrong.

Roll on the racing season and see you all out there!

Louis Vuitton Symphony Sandals $2360
Louis Vuitton Chain Louise Bag $4100
Mimco's Aphrodite Halo $149
Marmalade Hats Twisted Raceday hat $645
SRK Millinery Royal hat $210.19

Stockists:

• nataliechan.co.nz
• trelisecooperonline.com
• tedbaker.com.au
• karenmillen.com.au
• hugoboss.com
• glamourboutique.com
• marmaladehats.co.nz
• louisvuitton.com
• srkmillinery
• mimco.com.au

• Follow Michiko on Instagram: @michikohylands