Effortless Magic Millions look takes months of planning for Gold Coast glamour set

THEY may make it look effortless but some of the top racing outfits set to stun at Magic Millions have been months in the planning by the serious fashion set.

Racing is all about the hat. Getting ready for Magic Millions is model Jessica Green,styled by Simone Bennett-Smith at Marina Mirage, in a hat from Tracy Mac . Picture Glenn Hampson

THEY may make it look effortless but some of the top racing outfits set to stun at Magic Millions have been months in the planning by the serious fashion set.

Marina Mirage stylist Simone Bennett-Smith was yesterday still getting last-minute phone calls with pleas for help from women invited to this weekend’s big events unexpectedly.

But others, she said, had adopted a “professional” approach to see them through the long list of trackside lunches and glamorous parties.

“One lady has six hats and separate outfits for this week,” she said.

MAGIC MILLIONS GLAMOUR

Model Jessica Green gets ready for Magic Millions in an outfit styled by Simone Bennett-Smith at Marina Mirage, in a hat from Tracy Mac. Picture: Glenn Hampson

“It’s a commitment and some spend a couple of months planning their wardrobe.”

Ms Bennett-Smith said Gold Coast style icons invited to both a breakfast and luncheon event would think nothing of changing outfits during the day in order to wear something different for each appearance.

“These ladies are professionals. They are beautiful and they take it seriously,” she said.

“Others of course ring up and say, “quick I’ve just been invited to such and such and have nothing to wear”.

“The best advice I can give is to come in and look at the great designers with something that suits your body shape then add the wow factor with accessories.”

Ms Bennett-Smith said she was still loving structured ensembles built around well-crafted, mid-length skirts.

“Having said that I am also seeing some beautiful, feminine creations that hint at an almost Audrey Hepburn-type feel,” she said.

“Lots of monochromatic still, with hats or shoes offering the colour.

“I am also seeing a lot of metallic too, which is unusual for the races.

“But it’s nice to see a change like that with more sedate tones like pewter or toned-down gold which are really elegant.”

On the controversial topic of showing midriff at the races, Ms Bennett-Smith said she was a fan of the trend so long as women remembered its true design.

“We are not Britney Spears. A good midriff outfit is all about a high-waisted skirt or pants with a top that just skims the waistline.”

Those in need of last-minute inspiration can still buy tickets for Marine Mirage’s Diamonds and Pearls Gala Luncheon and fashion parade at Fellini Ristorante e Bar today.