Fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters across the country are preparing their outfits for some of the year’s biggest fashion events. With Derby Day and Melbourne Cup just around the corner, fashionistas are buzzing with excitement, exchanging text messages with their besties about what to wear. Will they find the perfect dress in time? What about the shoes to match? And the handbag— oh, the handbag! Every detail matters. As the anticipation grows, so does the pressure to create a look that’s both on-trend, and unforgettable.

Spring Carnival Racing provides the perfect opportunity to dress to impress every year. Australians nationwide eagerly embrace bold colours and head-turning accessories as they gear up for a day trackside, clinking champagne glasses and soaking up the sunshine.

Of course, the sunshine isn’t always guaranteed, and neither is betting on a winning horse. Whether you’re a seasoned race-goer or a newcomer ready to claim your crown as queen of the track, it’s always worth revisiting the dress codes that apply to this fabulous affair.

What To Wear To Derby Day:

As Australians, we know that rules are often meant to be broken, but if there’s one rule you should follow, it’s wearing black and white to Derby Day. Monochrome elegance is the name of the game for this special event, held on the Saturday before the Melbourne Cup. Derby Day is renowned for its high-stakes horse racing and classic fashion traditions. Black and white ensembles dominate the fields, with fashionistas and racing fans competing in Fashions on the Field for a chance to win “Best Dressed.”

Often considered one of the most stylish days on the Spring Racing calendar, its distinct dress code demonstrates sophistication through polished outfits and elegant accessories. We asked the incredible stylist Lisa Jones, owner of Molly and Rose Fashion Haus, for her top picks for Derby Day looks.

“To stand out in a crowd, think sophisticated suiting, feminine silhouettes, and styles that make you feel beautiful. Fashion trends evolve quickly, but my best advice is to embrace what’s on trend while refining it to create a classic look.”

Molly and Rose Fashion Haus

Lisa’s advice captures the essence of Derby Day: timeless, monochrome fashion with an edge of personal flair.

Vests have dominated the fashion scene this year, so I suggest a chic black or white vest paired with matching tailored pants. Add personal touches like a bold lip, gold earrings, stunning necklaces, and of course, statement millinery to elevate the outfit.”

Lisa Jones, Fashion Stylist

Derby Day Dont’s!

To be absolutely clear, stick to the monochrome dress code for Derby Day—save your pops of colour for the Melbourne Cup the following week. Avoid anything too casual or under-dressed; this isn’t the occasion for understated looks. Aim for timeless elegance, and when raiding your wardrobe or shopping for something new, prioritise classic styles. With Derby Day steeped in tradition, aligning your outfit with the theme while expressing your personal style will make sure you feel classy and confident all day.

Lisa reminds us that subtle sophistication is the name of the game on Derby Day. However, once Melbourne Cup rolls around, it’s your time to shine in vibrant colours and stand-out accessories.

What To Wear To The Melbourne Cup:

Think bright, bold, and authentically you—accessorise to your heart’s content! As the climax of the Spring Racing Carnival, the Melbourne Cup attracts spectators from near and far. This is the perfect opportunity to showcase your best dress and turn heads in all the right ways.

Embrace vibrant colours and playful patterns; feminine floral prints are a Racing season favourite, alongside tailored ensembles and stylish jumpsuits. The brief? Go all out or go home! The Melbourne Cup is not the time to be demure, so take the opportunity to incorporate elevated millinery and statement jewellery into your look.

If you’re unsure about what accessories to wear, or which pair of earrings will elevate your outfit to the next level, we consulted accessories queen Louise Pieri from Axessi for expert advice.

“The Melbourne Cup is the perfect occasion to embrace femininity and flamboyance, and this year we’re seeing a resurgence of bold, oversize statement earrings in all shapes, colours, and materials. I recommend floral earrings, geometric and metallic shapes, exaggerated bows, or a mix of pearls and rhinestones, depending on your outfit choice.”

Louise Pieri, Founder of Axessi

Louise’s insights add the perfect finishing touch to any Melbourne Cup look. Whether you’re going for bold and beautiful, or a touch of minimalist chic, you can elevate your Spring Racing accessories here.

Melbourne Cup Nup’s:

Now that you’ve got your outfits sorted, let’s go over a few fashion no-no’s. While it may be tempting to show off those pins in your favourite party dress, keep hemlines appropriate and avoid anything too short or revealing. Steer clear of see-through fabrics unless they’re styled with elegant layering or paired with a chic springtime blazer.

An event as prestigious as the Melbourne Cup demands a polished look from its attendees. If you’ve found the perfect outfit, make sure it both looks and feels right. Comfort is key for a long day at the track. Hot tip: don’t size down in your desired dress!

Wearing an outfit that lets you move comfortably and be at ease will keep you looking just as poised at the end of the day as when you first arrived. Besides, nothing says confidence like a well-fitting outfit. Pair it with the right shoes—think trendy block heels (no stilettos!) or your trusty go-to’s—and you’ll be race-day ready.

And last but certainly not least, the races are often synonymous with indulgence and excess. A friendly word of caution: too many champagnes on an empty stomach won’t do you any favours… So, do yourself a favour: stay hydrated, keep it classy, and be sure to drink some water and enjoy a few canapés between cocktails. After all, there’s nothing worse than that one sip that pushes you over the edge and has you texting your ex. Ladies, don’t let that stunning dress go to waste!

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See you on the other side of the track,
Melanie Canosa

XOXO

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