Relatable undies blunder catching out stars at Melbourne Cup Carnival every year

Erin Holland’s daring thigh split showed off more than bargained for – but no doubt another star will fall victim to the fashion curse this year.

It can happen to anyone, but unfortunately for Erin Holland, she was the unlucky soul who endured a dreaded wardrobe malfunction at Penfold’s Victoria Derby Day last year.

The Australian model kicked off the Melbourne Cup Carnival wearing a custom Daniel Moore Couture gown, which featured a white top with ruffle detailing that cascaded over the shoulder and a figure-hugging black pencil skirt.

Her outfit was quickly labelled “stunning” and “gorgeous” by fans, but Holland later came unstuck when the dress’ thigh split revealed a little more than she bargained for.

Erin Holland suffered an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction at Penfold’s Victoria Derby Day in 2022. Picture: Sam Tabone/Getty Images

In a series of very relatable snaps, Holland – who had been styled by fashion guru Donny Galella – inadvertently flashed her undies to onlookers while venturing through the iconic Bird Cage at Flemington Race Course.

She’s not the first person to fall victim to a wardrobe mishap at Derby Day in 2022, with New Zealand movie director Taika Waititi having to take emergency action to stop his suit pants falling down.

After accidentally giving Armani the “wrong size”, Waititi had pants that were far too big, revealing he was able to make them smaller with a spot of quick thinking.

“I had to do a little emergency stitch down in the toilets and I stitched these (an extra button on his pants) myself,” he said.

The Australian model’s undies were exposed as she ventured around the racecourse. Picture: Media Mode

She’s not the only person to suffer a wardrobe fail – and she won’t be the last. Picture: Media Mode

Victoria Racing Club (VRC) has updated its dress regulations for exclusive member areas at the iconic racecourse, including the prestigious Birdcage, for 2023.

This has seen a more modern view on once controversial fashion trends, such as cut-outs, exposed midriffs and low backs.

However, VRC has stressed members are still “expected to maintain a suitable standard of racewear attire”, stating: “This is not a case of anything goes.”

“This is not about becoming casual or relaxing rules,” Neil Wilson, chairman of the VRC, said in October.

“A cut-out in this context is what we believe is appropriate for our brand. It needs to be considerate of the environment and think about the elegance of that.”

VRC announced last month the rules around outfits in members areas had been updated. Picture: Julie Kiriacoudis

This iconic 2013 outfit worn by the then Lara Bingle on Victoria Derby Day is no longer banned at Flemington. Picture: Getty Images

Mr Wilson also explained that backless styles must stop at the waist, well above the buttocks, while belly buttons must also not be on display.

Men have also received an updated dress code this year, being allowed to wear “tailored” shorts for the first time, thought only with a suit jacket and tie.

“The VRC is managing the transition to more contemporary requirements and fashion is an important part of that.,” Mr Wilson said.

“These regulation changes have an impact on how we think about racing.”

Other looks that are still banned from the track include bralettes and bandeau crop tops as well as short jumpsuits and playsuits for women.

While ripped clothing, joggers, and denim are on the “no-go” list for everyone, the VRC website states.

Originally published as Relatable undies blunder catching out stars at Melbourne Cup Carnival every year