‘Modern day lady,’ how to nail the Spring Racing dress code

Key trends this season include bold hues, embellishments and chic classicism.

Emma McKeon in a red Alaia dress at the Birdcage preview this week.

When it comes to Spring Racing Carnival, getting dressed up for it is arguably the best part of the day.

This is the case for Olympic champion Emma McKeon, who says she is enjoying the chance to wear something beyond a pair of swimmers.

“It’s been really fun deciding on my outfits,” says McKeon, an ambassador for G.H Mumm in the Birdcage this season, at a preview of the marquee earlier this week.

“Having a break from the pool has allowed me to be part of other exciting events that aren’t related to swimming so I’ve really enjoyed that.”

For Derby Day today McKeon says she is keeping to the monochrome tradition with a classic black Dior dress with black and white accessories.

A Derby-ready look from Aje, via David Jones.

Keeping things chic is something that Melbourne-based stylist and shoe designer Lana Wilkinson – who this season will be dressing the likes of Rebecca Judd, Anna Heinrich and Candice Warner for the Spring Carnival- is expecting to see a lot of.

“During this year’s Spring Racing Carnival we’re going to see a lot of elegant, classic silhouettes with a fresh twist. Structured tailoring will be everywhere, whether it’s in bold suiting or dresses with dramatic sleeves or shoulder elements. Accessories will make a statement this year too – look out for a lot of sculptural classic racewear headpieces and big, bold earrings,” she says.

Fellow Melbourne designer Effie Katsaounis, whose designs will be worn by TV personality Carrie Bickmore this season, thinks there is a shift toward “modern day ‘lady dressing.’”

“Every detail of the outfit is thoughtfully curated: contemporary silhouettes, sharp tailoring, and a feminine edge with structured blazers, bold shoulders, and cinched waists,” she says.

Model Jessica Gomes inside the LANDMARK by Lexus Marquee at a preview earlier this week.

As for the men? Just concentrate on the fit.

“It’s all about the best fitting suit and good shoes.”

Bridget Veals, executive general manager of womenswear, footwear & accessories at David Jones says she expects this year’s Spring Carnival to be a playground for new season trends with customers embracing the soft pastels, vibrant blues, florals, bubble skirts and mini-season spied in collections this year. Veals says Australian brands such as SIR and Aje are perfect for making a statement trackside this year.

As for keeping to the dress codes, Veals agrees Derby Day in particular is one where classicism is always perfect.

“For Derby Day, where the black and white dress code reigns, keep your look classic yet fashion-forward. Incorporate delicate headwear, headbands or hair clips to add a touch of elegance. Choose sophisticated top handle bags from designers like Olga Berg or clutches embellished with pearl details, and opt for elegant pumps or closed-toe heels to complete your outfit,” she says.

The Rebecca Vallance Eliana puff sleeve dress is a bestseller for the designer.

Australian fashion designer Rebecca Vallance says customers are wanting to dress up this season – for the races, and the party season beyond. Many have been investing in what she calls “sophisticated elegance” this season, and she expects to see a lot of embellishments, texture and intricate details on guests this carnival.

A bestseller has been her puff-sleeve Rosita and Eliana midi-dresses, as well as off-the-shoulder and halter-neck styles. Vallance predicts pops of pink will reign, as well as bold hues of deep blue, gold and bright red.

“I think the key to nailing the spring carnival dress code is all about what makes the wearer feel confident, having fun with your look from head to toe and making it yours,” she says.

Other celebrity guests in attendance for Derby Day include actor and model Abbey Lee, whose recent work includes Mad Max: Fury Road, and most recently Kevin Costner’s Horizon, as well as walking the runway for the likes of French haute couture house Schiaparelli, and model Jessica Gomes, who are both exclusive guests of the Landmark by Lexus marquee.