Race day glam: flaunt your style
Townsville’s Winter Racing Carnival blends fashion and sport, spotlighting vibrant styles and innovation with the Fashions on the Field Series
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The Winter Racing Carnival in Townsville is not just a sporting event, it is a celebration of fashion, style, and self-expression.
This year, the carnival is set to reach new heights with the introduction of North Queensland’s first and richest Fashions on the Field Series.
The series - held over Ladies Day on August 2 and Townsville Cup on August 9 - promises to transform the Winter Racing Carnival experience, bringing a vibrant energy that rivals the fashion culture of major carnivals across the country.
Alicia Collings, who is on the Cluden Park fashion committee, told NQ Weekend the idea of the Fashions on the Field Series was born from a desire to raise the profile of fashion in the North.
“We wanted to create a platform that rivals the fashion culture of other major carnivals, something aspirational, but still authentically North Queensland.”
With a substantial prize pool and a series format designed to attract serious talent, the event aims to elevate the fashion standard across the Winter Racing Carnival.
One of the standout themes for this year’s event is trans-seasonal styling, reflecting the unique climate of North Queensland.
“Even in winter, we enjoy warm, sunny days.
“This gives racegoers the opportunity to play with lighter fabrics, layering, and unexpected styling choices that wouldn’t work in other regions.”
This fresh take on traditional racewear is a testament to the lifestyle and climate of the region.
The digital age has brought about significant changes in how fashion is perceived and showcased, and the Winter Racing Carnival has embraced these advancements.
The introduction of a Digital Fashion Competition is set to enhance the reach and engagement of the Fashions on the Field Series.
“The digital competition allows people from all over the country, even those who can’t attend in person to take part.
“It’s inclusive and fun, and we’re expecting high engagement online.”
This innovation not only broadens access but also builds momentum around the Fashion Series, keeping the conversation alive between race days.
Social media has also played a pivotal role in transforming the fashion landscape at events like the Winter Racing Carnival.
“Social media has completely transformed how fashion is consumed and celebrated at events like these. It’s created a platform for everyday racegoers to become style icons,” Alicia says. “It’s created a platform for everyday racegoers to become style icons, and it’s brought a whole new level of energy and visibility to regional events like the Winter Racing Carnival.”
This shift has brought a new level of energy and visibility to regional events, making them more dynamic and engaging.
Taylor Brunton, a fashion ambassador for the Winter Racing Carnival and a fashion judge at the Townsville Cup, says the Winter Racing Carnival is an iconic part of the social calendar in Townsville.
“I love any excuse to dress up and the races are the perfect blend of fashion, friends and that exciting atmosphere.
“It’s about celebrating style, feeling confident and making memories with the girls.”
For Taylor, the carnival is about celebrating style, feeling confident, and making memories.
Taylor’s journey to becoming a Fashion Ambassador started with a local fashion modelling competition at age 15.
“I signed up for a local fashion modelling competition, mainly just for fun and a chance to dress up.
“ I had no clue what I was doing but I ended up winning.
“That moment really sparked something in me. I realised how empowering fashion can be and ever since then, I’ve loved experimenting with style and expressing myself through clothes.
“Being asked to be Fashion Ambassador this year feels like such a full circle moment.”
Her passion for fashion and self-expression has led her to embrace bold styles and experiment with her look.
As a seasoned racegoer, Taylor has a keen eye for fashion trends.
“I think we’ll see a lot of bold colours, elevated textures like lace or satin and structured pieces that make a statement.
“I love seeing people push the boundaries with their race day style and make it their own.”
Her approach to race day fashion balances style with practicality, emphasising comfort without sacrificing elegance.
Fashion plays a crucial role in boosting confidence and self-expression, especially at the Winter Racing Carnival.
“Fashion is such a powerful form of self expression. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, you carry yourself differently!”
The carnival provides the perfect setting for attendees to celebrate their style and step into something that makes them feel amazing.
As a first-time judge, Taylor is excited to evaluate the fashion at the carnival.
“I’ll be looking for outfits that feel polished, well thought out, and unique. I’m drawn to colour, structure and personal flair,” she explains.
Confidence is the key ingredient she seeks in a winning outfit, as it always shines through.
Being the Fashion Ambassador is a role Taylor cherishes.
“I’m excited to bring positive energy, hype up other women and help make fashion feel fun, inclusive and empowering,” she says.
Her goal is to inspire others to embrace fashion, have fun, and enjoy the magic of the day.
Cluden Park will host Ladbrokes Ladies Day on August 2 and Ladbrokes Townsville Cup on August 9.
Go to cludenpark.com.au
Originally published as Race day glam: flaunt your style
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