Which fascinator and frock combo will score top marks? And which suit will have the edge over all others?
Herald senior journalist spoke to top designer and The CrossingCup Day Fashion Competition judge Nicole Rebstock about what she expects to see on the catwalk and what will win her vote in the iconic annual event.
One thing is for sure - there will be colour and there will be headwear of all shapes, materials and sizes.
“Of course, current fashion trends influence what people wear at the races but classic and elegant fashion etiquette has been preserved over the years, timeless beauty that really resonates with me and my brand.
“This means you’ll often see more a-line, fitted or preppy type fashion - of course, modernised by today’s trends.”
Rebstock said The Crossing Cup Day Fashion Competition is going to be “one of the most exciting and decadent we’ve ever had”.
This year there is a tent on site dedicated for the entire day to the “fashion devoted”.
Hosted by NZME broadcaster Toni Street from Coast, there will be a catwalk, long lunches and bubbles all around.
NZME broadcaster Toni Street. Photo / Michael Rooke
Rebstock said tickets for the tent sold out well in advance of Cup Day.
“And we know there are some really strong contestants, many of whom continue to outdo themselves year after year, so we are excited to see what they have in store for us,” she told the Herald.
“Although there is no right or wrong, there are a few trends we expect to see shining through based on current international fashion trends.
“Metallics are on trend this year, and we are likely to see the use of a lot of bold colours.
“For ladies, dramatic and feminine features such as oversized bows, vibrant silks and lace - it’s going to be a bold year.”
So as a judge, what will Rebstock be looking for when deciding on the winning looks?
“Originality, attention to detail, consistency and of course, good shoes,” she said.
“We want contestants to pick a theme and commit to it cohesively throughout their entire look.”
Rebstock said she loved the judging process as it was a chance to “indulge” in her “favourite type of fashion” and enjoy the design work of others.
“The fashion we see at Cup Day is very harmonious with my own label,” she explained.
Cup Day fashion competition judge Nicole Rebstock said shoes like these - Zola from her own brand - were perfect for races ensemble.
“The Nicole Rebstock Shoes & Accessories label is inspired by my adoration of timeless beauty and femininity and broadly speaking, that is the aim of the game on Cup Day.
“I love the consideration and attention to detail and it’s always a pleasure seeing people enjoying themselves and feeling good.
“Last year we really enjoyed listening to how contestants put their outfits together so I’m hoping we will get some of that again this year.”
Rebstock, who stepped away from a traditional career in the law to become a designer and entrepreneur, is known for her use of rich colours and “timeless” feminine silhouettes.
She said “attention to detail is core” to her ethos - but comfort was “as important as aesthetic design”.
Nicole Rebstock’s top five must-have items for Cup Day:
Good shoes! Shoes make or break an outfit.
Matching accessories - the devil is in the detail, and this is where you can score a lot of points
A headpiece - a hat, fascinator, headband, flower, scarf etc
An outfit you feel good in
Cash to bet on your favourite horse
The Crossing Cup Day Fashion Competition - how to enter:
Entrants must be at least 18 years of age and a New Zealand resident and purchase a ticket to the IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup Day
