With Spring well under way and summer just around the corner, the racing season is in full swing! As well as fabulous marquees, bubbles, betting and fun under the sun, racing events present the glamorous crowds for carnival-goers with the chance to get creative and don their most fabulous and frivolous outfits. From impossibly pretty two-piece outfits, to flowing dresses and striking jumpsuits, we’ve rounded up some of this season’s most coveted race wear pieces fit for all fashion personalities.
Alexis Tiara Dress, $1,290.52 from Revolve Clothing (left) and Floral Delight in Black hat, $500.00 from Natalie Chan (right).
The Parisienne
Whether you want to put a feminine spin on your Derby Day attire or simply add a classical touch to your look for the remaining race days, you can never go wrong with a Parisienne chic-inspired ensemble. To channel this quintessentially glamorous style, keep your outfit’s colours and accessories simple and neutral so that the dramatic silhouettes and delicate textures take centre stage. Alexis’ Tiara’s tulle lace dress, adorned with satin ribbon and tiered ruffles is the epitome of French-inspired femininity. For a timeless and elegant fascinator, the Floral Delight in black by Natalie Chan will lend itself seamlessly to any ensemble.
Keepsake Transcend Long Sleeve Top, $149.95 AUD and Transcend Pant, $149.95 AUD from BNKR (left) and Runaway Senorita Fascinator, $71.20 AUD from Alannah Hill (right).
The Romantic
From weddings to festivals and everything in-between, frills and flowers are always a winning combination for special occasions during the warmer seasons. To add an original spin to this classically feminine ensemble, try pairing frilled separates like the Keepsake Transcend pants together with the matching long-sleeved top for an original and chic statement. With a solid-coloured, pastel ensemble like this one as the base of your outfit, the world is your oyster when it comes to accessioning! For jewellery, everything from a classic strand or two of pearls to a pair of glittering statement earrings works a treat. As for the fascinator and headdress, this outfit seamlessly lends itself to a simple jewelled headband, a statement fascinator or floral crown in all kinds of colours, like this pink and blue number by Alannah Hill.
Noisy May Tall 2 In 1 Sweat Dress With Pleated Skirt Detail, $60.47 from ASOS (left) and Azalea Headpiece, $129.95 AUD from Morgan and Taylor (right).
The Modernist
While classically feminine shapes and details reign supreme over Race Day fashion, sleek and minimalist silhouettes are the go-to styles if you’re wanting to break away from what’s conventional, yet still retain the glamour of racing dress codes. Dropped waists, midi shift dresses and oversized styles are a few options for structured, modernist Race Day. Another eye-catching way to give your look an avant-garde and modern edge is through a pop of metallic; shoes, sashes or even piece of statement jewellery will add just the right glistening touch.
Keepsake Stay Close Lace Top, $219.95 AUD from BNKR (left) and Norah Fascinator, $169.95 AUD from Morgan and Taylor (right).
The Trendsetter
One of the hottest combinations we’re seeing this year is jewel-toned hues with splashes of gold metallic added to the look. For an on-trend Race Day look, we can’t go past this ensemble made from the Stay Close top and Skirt by Keepsake, complete with all of this season’s hottest elements like beautiful dark lace, a midi-length skirt, a waist peplum and sheer detailing. Pair this look with casual waves, dewy skin, a dark pout and this Morgan and Taylor Norah gold flower crown for a decadently trendy look.
Diane von Furstenberg One Shoulder Knot Jumpsuit, $677.85 from Revolve Clothing (left) and Hedy hat, $650.00 from Natalie Chan (right).
The Showstopper
While dresses hold a monopoly over the women’s trackside fashion scene, we are definitely seeing jumpsuits get their well-deserved place on Race Day fashion edits in recent times. A long, cigarette trouser or wide-legged jumpsuit is your quintessential weapon to making an effortlessly elegant statement on the field (and not to mention, keep your pins safe from the sunrays). To make heads turn and hearts fly, opt for a jumpsuit in a solid, summery colour like hot pink, royal blue or bright red like this Diane von Furstenberg one shoulder knot jumpsuit. Pair it with an original and sculptural fascinator and subtle accessories for an unforgettable look.
White Queenic Dress, $899 from Trelise Cooper (left) and Max Alexander Lace Crown Fascinator, $149.95 AUD from The Iconic (right).
The Dreamer
The warmer seasons are the perfect time to experiment with fun, floaty and gorgeous lace fabrics. We’re currently crushing on delicate, white lace dresses for the summer like Trelise Cooper’s White Queenic Dress. Pair it with a stunning gold headdress like this and you’ll be channelling your inner Grecian goddess effortlessly. As for shoes, some neutral-toned sandals or an on-trend gold block heel to match headdress would be the icing on the cake.
A.L.C. Kensington Jumpsuit, $1,151.48 from Revolve Clothing (left) and Alluring Muse in Black hat, $900.00 from Natalie Chan (right).
The Power Dresser
The secret to power dressing in any occasion always melts down to a skilful play with proportions — and race day dressing is no different! Mix structured sleeves and trousers, strong shoulders and even the odd lapel or statement collar into your Race Day look for a simple and striking look. This chic tuxedo jumpsuit by ALC is both avant-garde in terms of trackside fashion, yet the epitome of classical and it lends itself to infinite styling abilities. For a monochromatic Derby Day look, we suggest pairing it with this dramatic Natalie Chan fascinator for maximum wow-factor. As for the rest of the cup days, any metallic or jewel-toned adornings would certainly do this elegant power-piece justice!
Images supplied.