Victoria Racing Club has scratched best-dressed male and female prizes to be more inclusive

Flemington’s Fashions on the Field is set for a shock makeover on the eve of its 60th anniversary, with plans for the prestigious competition to go gender neutral.

Demi Brereton, Aaron Mitchell and Christian Wilkins with Mr Bean mark the 60th anniversary of Myer Fashions on the Field. Picture: David Caird

Forget the fillies and colts, Flemington’s iconic Fashions on the Field is getting a genderless makeover.

In a bold statement, the Victoria Racing Club has scratched the best-dressed male and female prizes to stay relevant and be more inclusive on the eve of its 60th anniversary.

The normally conservative racing club, which prides itself on its rich tradition, will have two fashion contests this year open to anyone.

It will stage a Best Dressed as well as a Best Suited award, both of which will accommodate female, male and non-­binary contestants.

After a three-year hiatus from the track, VRC chairman Neil Wilson said the new chapter in fashions aimed to invigorate the time-honoured competition while increasing its inclusivity and reach.

VRC ambassador Demi Brereton and Mr Bean. Picture: David Caird

VRC ambassador Aaron Mitchell and Mr Bean. Picture: David Caird

“In celebration of Myer Fashions on the Field’s 60th anniversary and its return to Flemington, we are ensuring that our fashion story drives equality, inclusion and individuality as we set course for the next 60 years,” he said.

“We proudly embrace the notion that fashion and style are an expression of individual creativity and believe this should be reflected in the international event.”

Flamboyant Melbourne Cup Carnival ambassador Christian Wilkins, the son of TV personality Richard, praised the VRC for its progressive approach.

“I couldn’t love it more,” Wilkins said.

“Any fashion insider will tell you that the future of fashion is fluidity, it’s so exciting to see Myer Fashions of the Field leading that trend here in Australia.

“Plus generally creating an accepting, non-judgmental space for all people to express themselves is amazing.”

Joining Wilkins as ambassadors are Demi Brereton, the daughter of former jockey Danny, and stylist Aaron Mitchell, whose father and grandfather worked as clerks of the course at Flemington.

VRC ambassador Christian Wilkins. pictured with Mr Bean, is raring to go. Picture: David Caird

The pandemic-led digital entry element to Fashions on the Field will remain, allowing every racing and style ­enthusiast across the country to join the competition with ease, no matter their location.

In addition, there will be the opportunity for racegoers to enter in person at Flemington across the four days of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

“We are pleased to be welcoming crowds back to the Melbourne Cup Carnival in 2022 to enjoy the fashion spectacle that Myer Fashions on the Field continues to ­deliver, while maintaining the incredibly popular digital component of the competition, broadening reach and inclusion,” Wilson said.

This year’s competition will also be open to New Zealand residents.

For the first time, a finalist in the major Best Dressed and Best Suited categories will be selected to represent New Zealand in the Fashions on the Field National Final on Kennedy Oaks Day.

For more information on Myer Fashions on the Field and the 2022 Melbourne Cup Carnival, visit vrc.com.au.

TIPS FROM VRC AMBASSADORS

“Gloves! And definitely amazing textural fabrics. If you want my vote anything sparkly and have fun with it.”

— Christian Wilkins

“It’s time for colour, be yourself and find inspiration from the old and the new. There are rules to stick
to and traditions to be bent.”
— Aaron Mitchell

“The return of beautiful wide-brimmed hats as seen at this
year’s Royal Ascot and more tailored suiting.”
— Demi Brereton

Originally published as Victoria Racing Club has scratched best-dressed male and female prizes to be more inclusive