Six tips to nail your cup day outfit (and win a trip to Paris)

Posted on 26 October, 2018

It’s spring racing with a side of French flair.

If you were ever on the fence about entering Thoroughbred Park’s Canberra Centre fashions on the field competition on Melbourne Cup day, this year’s top prize has a certain je ne sais quoi that’s certain to tip you over: a trip for two to Paris. Planning your outfit yet? To help get you closer to the land of cheese and croissants, we tracked down Thoroughbred Park’s marketing manager Briony Young for some tips on this season’s winning looks.

Entrants at last year’s Canberra Centre fashions on the field.

Embrace feminine hues

Melbourne Cup has always been about embracing colour, so don’t be afraid to experiment. This season is a firm nod to ultra-feminine hues, with plenty of florals and pastels.“This year spring’s colour palette consists of pastels, bright hues and bold tones worn solo or paired together,” says Briony. “Demonstrate the potential of colour blocking in sunset tones, while a touch of flounce is brought to life in dusty blossom pinks.Hats are also bold and large, the boater has retained its spot in fashions on the field as the go to, however this year we are seeing the 60s style sunhat.”

Jumpsuits enter the race

Move over dresses and skirts, there’s a newbie on the style set, and it’s in the form of a jumpsuit. Fun and playful, they’re a smart option if you want to make a statement – just look for beautifully tailored pieces to cut a sleek silhouette. “Pantsuits are definitely trending right now and I am sure will be significant with entries this year,” says Briony. “There will still be the classic looks traditional wear with beautiful dresses and blouse/skirt combos, too.”

Jennifer Hawkins rocking a jumpsuit. Image: Instagram

Work the sleeve

When it comes to dresses, focus on the sleeves, advises Briony. “If your sleeves couldn’t be on the cover of a romance novel, reassess your look.” Flared sleeves on a floral dress are still very much in style, while a fluttery sleeve or off the shoulder detail (think Meghan Markle in dusty pink Carolina Herrera) are romantic options.

It’s all in the details

When it comes to racing style, the finer details are key. One of the hottest accessories spotted trackside this season has been the silk scarf, either tied around headwear, necks or elegantly draped around the waist. “While most women can identify a great dress, when it comes to racing, it’s the accessories that separate the basic from the brilliant,” says Briony. “With boater hats, headbands and scarves pinned as millinery must-haves, take time to personalise your ensemble and give it some wow factor to attract the judges or the social photographer’s attention!”

Embrace individuality

“The most certain aspect of creating a winning Melbourne Cup look is to be the most vivid version of yourself,” says Briony. “This season presents boundless opportunities for everyone to update their racing wardrobe in a rainbow of colour suited to any skin tone, endless flattering shapes and lengths midi to maxi.” Steer clear of shorter skirts or too much exposed skin, Briony adds: “It’s all class and sophistication on the Canberra Centre Fashions on the field stage.”

If in doubt, look to the stars

There’s nothing like a bit of Instagram stalking of the style set for some racing inspo. “Francesca Cumani, Kate Waterhouse and Jennifer Hawkins are the perfect racing identities to follow but we are loving Nadia Bartel, Jessica Gomes, Elyse Knowles, Rebecca Judd and Megan Gale,” says Briony.

Nadia Bartel at last year’s Melbourne Cup. Image: Instagram

the essentials

What: Melbourne Cup at Thoroughbred Park
When: Tuesday 6 November 2018, gates open from 10.30am
Where:1 Randwick Rd, Lyneham
How much: From $25
Web: thoroughbredpark.com.au

Bookings are closed for hospitality options.  Become a member for great benefits or purchase your general admission ticket through Ticketek or at the gate on the day.

All fashions on the field photos supplied by Thoroughbred Park. 

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