It's not just the jockeys who slip into special racing silks for a big day at the track. Another group of race-goers know that donning an eye-catching outfit is all part of the preparation for a fun-filled Cup Week outing at Ellerslie. Take your cue from those stylish race-day regulars who, like successful jockeys, display that planning and individual flair are a
winning combination.
Whether you’re attending the races for the first time, or back to make a bigger splash, remember that dressing up is what sets the day apart. The races offer everyone – male or female, young or old – a chance to shine. Competing to turn heads is positively encouraged. Do it for fun, do it to win the Viva Prix de Fashion, do it because that’s what you do...
Don’t worry about looking ridiculous, being dowdy among peacocks is much more of a downer. Instead stick a feather in your hat and prepare to preen. You’ll fit right in and feel fabulous.
TREND TIPS
This season, internationally aware race-day dressing for women is trending bold and bright or black and white. Skirt lengths hover just above the knee or follow runway trends lower in pencil cuts or billowing to mid-calf in 1950s-style. Graphic florals are striking in figure-hugging sheaths. Colour blocking and laser cut out detailing remain popular, peplums less so. Fabrics with delicate prints, polka dots and retro patterns give options to either tie in or contrast with your clutch purse and shoes. Metallic trims feature in belts and head pieces. Separates are joining sleeveless frocks and jackets and suiting as favourites, with the economical bonus that a top and skirt ensemble can be drawn from wardrobe staples. Boxing Day and other recent Fashion in the Fields winners at Ellerslie worked thisversatile duo well.
Men’s suiting, as first seen at Flemington during Melbourne Cup 2014, is more subdued compared with the colour craze of the past few years, but blue hues remain popular. Subtle patterns such as Prince of Wales check are showing up. Leave black for the office and follow the trend seen at summer meetings such as the Karaka Million in choosing fabrics with textural interest, including linen. Dandyish touches add personality through the likes of pink shirts, striped or spotted ties and an optional pocket square. Keep the overall effect masculine with sharp tailoring and a quality leather belt and shoes.
HEADS UP
Nothing says I'm off to the races more than the hunt for the perfect hat. Some women swear by finding it first and then selecting their outfit, others sort the dress before deciding on the finishing flourish. Whatever takes your fancy, wear it with confidence and make your choice according to whether you can navigate the day with ease in a wide picture hat or disc, prefer architectural height or feel more comfortable in a neat turban, cloche or beret. Feather fascinators are always a fall-back, but for those who don't like full coverage the more structured hatinator is a stronger style statement. Veiling draws attention to the face as does wearing a metallic chain or punched leather head piece, both of which are newer and less girly options for the young than a floral headband or clip. Rosette clusters are a pretty choice, especially sizeable ones pinned to the side of the head, allowing hair to wave freely. For men, panama and fedora hats reign supreme, with a brave few doffing top hats.
WORD TO THE WISE
Racewear has moved on from the days of stuffy traditions, but there is still a certain etiquette to be observed. If you're invited to the members' stand or a marquee, think dressy daywear, whereas in the public areas looks can be more relaxed. Jandals and crop tops are best left for the beach, however, and although twilight meetings come with the promise of a trackside after-party save plunging necklines, strapless dresses and untucked open neck shirts for the night club.
The best race-day fashion incorporates elegant contemporary trends, with an emphasis on well-chosen accessories. It’s not about being all matchy-matchy; aim instead to mix things up in the modern way. Designer head-to-toe can look overly “done” or unimaginative. There is always a place for well-chosen vintage pieces and thrift or chain store finds. Several of New Zealand’s most successful race-day fashion competitors make their own outfits, others customise store-bought pieces and millinery. All know that immaculate grooming and a hat or headpiece that they can truly carry off will aid in the final sprint to the line to be named best dressed.
