A thought on Dressing for the Races
It’s not that often that I’m instantly compelled to write a blog post, however right now I am. Why? Because it’s Spring Racing season once again (for international readers: this is a season of horse racing events that everyone really gets into here in Australia, especially Melbourne) and that means every retailer under the Australian sun is trying to flog you a new outfit, pair of shoes, accessories, bag and something for your head. But here’s a thought I suggest keeping in mind when putting together your look this year: Restraint.
Despite the influx of influencers, stylists, shop attendants, magazines, instagrammers telling you what this season’s ‘trends’ are for the races, my advice would be to go with what you know works for you, avoid seasonal/fad trends and show some restraint. Dressing for the races is one of the hardest dress-codes to get right (in my opinion) and given some of the early outfit ‘inspo’ I’ve seen going around, it’s no wonder so many get it wrong. Here’s a quick guide:
Attending a raceday is not:
Going to the club - This rules out anything skintight, inappropriately low-cut & micro-mini’s.
An editorial photoshoot - This rules out accessorising as though you’re shooting the cover of Italian Vogue.
An beach excursion - This rules out the oversized Jacquemus inspired straw beach hat.
A black tie event - This rules out evening gowns and anything with a train.
An instagram makeup selfie - This rules out 3-inch-thick makeup. Remember at the races, people are looking at you IRL, not through a screen & filter. Daywear makeup please.
Dressing for the races also doesn’t mean trying every new trend all at once. Remember, wearing something on your head is pretty epic as it is, so you don’t need a zillion other elements. I’m talking off the shoulder, bell-sleeve, embroidered mullet dresses #toomuch
I beg of you, show some restraint this year. And also leave the YSL clutch at home #snooze
Looking back on some of the shots I’ve taken from over the years at the Melbourne Cup Carnival, the looks that still stand out to me are all classic, flattering, day-wear appropriate and respect the traditional dress-code for each day. Here’s a few favs from over the years…
