Golden Eagle 2024: Bold prints and bright colours a safe bet at Rosehill

Racegoers were dressed to impress as the $10m Golden Eagle took flight at Rosehill on Saturday, with colour, sharp tailoring and statement headpieces ruling trackside. Did we snap you? See inside.

As the $10 million James Squire Golden Eagle brought Australia’s racing elite to Rosehill Gardens, the crowds stepped up their style game, proving that the only thing more competitive than the races was the fashion on display.

The drizzly weather couldn’t dampen spirits, with racegoers embracing the theme “Touch of Gold” to its fullest, blending classic race-day elegance with bold, modern trends.

Leading the fashion pack was Golden Eagle Day ambassador Grace Hayden, who embodied a timeless-meets-modern look in her custom white Atoir dress, complete with the season’s trending bows.

“I’m wearing a lot of white this season,” she said, “I love the bows – it’s obviously on trend, so we’re going for both today.”

Styled to perfection with heels from Tony Bianco and custom millinery by Embellish Atelier, Hayden felt that race day allowed everyone a chance to push the boundaries. “I’m loving seeing everyone wear what they want and be comfortable in their own skin. Race day is about bringing something fun and creative to the table,” she said.

Erin Holland (left) and Grace Hayden dazzled in white. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Channel 7 presenter Sally Bowrey took a sophisticated, layered approach to tackle the overcast skies, donning a long-line mesh skirt and jacket from Scanlan Theodore.

“I always love a bit of drama around the face,” she said, of her intricate blue fascinator.

“I think everyone’s making really cool choices now, especially some of the younger crowd.

“Bold hues, strong structures – it adds so much to the colour of the day.”

Channel 7 presenter Sally Bowrey. Picture: Matrix Media Group

Human Nature’s Phil Burton and wife Justine. Picture: Matrix Media Group

Bright hues stood out against the grey skies. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Alyssa Licastro (left) and Chloe Robinson went for lime and lemon. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Monochrome pair Milli Windred and Oskar Hiles. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

As the fashion parade continued, Western Sydney locals, Jorden Munro, 30, and Caitlyn Walsh, 30, showcased their own takes on the floral and gold theme.

Ms Munro, in a sunny yellow dress with floral details, felt right at home among the season’s vibrant colours.

“I almost regretted wearing yellow because there’s so much of it around, but I love the floral vibe,” she said.

“I went for yellow to go along with the touch of gold, and it all just fits the theme.”

Ms Walsh also embraced florals, wearing an orange-and-white floral dress with golden and pearly accents.

“It’s so refreshing and summery,” she said.

Stefania Saliba (l to r), Kiana Love and Gracie Hasler head into the races. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Florals were popular. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Punters pose for a pic. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Stephanie (l to r), Alexia, Elisabeth, Laura and Ashley were ready for a fun day. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Stylist Elliot Garnaut weighed in on the day’s top trends, noting that strong colours, sharp tailoring, and statement headpieces would dominate this season.

“Bold, modern fashion with a mix of race-day elegance and edginess,” he said.

“Attendees embrace personal style and creativity, making the fashion diverse and exciting.”

Even the pint-sized punters looked stylish. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

James Tedesco steppped away from the grey suit. Picture: Matrix Media Group

Rosehill Gardens was a riot of colour. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

Among the men, NRL star James Tedesco also brought a splash of colour, stepping away from his usual athletic attire into a cherry-toned suit by MJ Bale.

“It’s a bit of a different colour than I’d usually go for, but I’m happy with how it looks,” he said.

From daring hues and frills to structured silhouettes, the Golden Eagle proved once again that race day isn’t just about the horses – it’s where fashion truly soars.