FROCKS, headpieces, heels and suits are becoming the main attraction to a day at the race track.
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In the lead-up to the Melbourne Cup local stores are stocking up on the latest spring fashions to have everyone ready and looking fabulous on the turf.
The sound of thundering hooves and placing bets may be the reason to attend the races for some, but for others it is a chance to have fun and dress up for the day.
With Fashions on the Field pulling significant prize money, the glory, for both men and women, of being the most dapper on the track is paramount.
Attention to detail is a must for that winning look.
In 1962, the Victoria Racing Club introduced the Fashions on the Field competition to “woo more women to the races” and now the races, around Australia, are an opportunity for women and men to be experimental, flamboyant and really accentuate their personality.
This year people are expected to flock to tracks around Australia and locals will no doubt head to the Shoalhaven City Turf Club or dress up at work to celebrate the event of the year.
Nowra’s Mojo fashion boutique owner Kirsty Fergusson said there were a range of styles for women to choose from this year.
“Tailored playsuits and jumpsuits are really in at the moment,” she said.
“Floral dresses and vintage styles are still very popular, but black and white is very in at the moment.
“Patterned dresses are also trending so people are keeping accessories simple with these outfits, going for a classic heel and minimal jewellery.”
Ms Fergusson said headpieces were a given for any race day.
“I would say this is what people are going for across the board, but for the bigger races people will naturally step it up a little,” she said.
Nowra’s Stanley Johns Menswear owner David Harrison said dressing for the races was a given and for the men the most striking trend is bold block-coloured suits.
“This year the colour is an exciting French blue which can be matched with silvers and whites,” he said.
“The bow-tie is very in at moment too with matching pocket square and if you prefer a tie, slim is the way to go.
“Everything is slim fit this season, finished off with a tan leather shoe and matching belt, hat and cufflinks.
“If a suit jacket is not your style, vests are very in too.”
Andrew Buckle from the South Coast Register took to the challenge of a spring fashion make-over so he could be race ready for this year’s Melbourne Cup.
“I loved my outfit,” he said.
“The races are a great chance to dress up and wear something I’d usually reserve for very special occasions.
“The atmosphere is great and the races are a chance to have a bit of fun.”