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Darwin Cup Carnival Ladies Day to showcase Territory trends and vibrant tropical fashion

Vibrant tropical colours and Territory trends expected ahead of race carnival’s ‘biggest day for fashion’. Read the details.

Renee Schultz, Ilissa Mccarty, Nerissa Calkin, Karlie Weinert and Kalila Petersen. Tropical colours and the latest Territory trends will be on display at the Rydges Palmerston Ladies Day on Wednesday at the Darwin Turf Club. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin
Renee Schultz, Ilissa Mccarty, Nerissa Calkin, Karlie Weinert and Kalila Petersen. Tropical colours and the latest Territory trends will be on display at the Rydges Palmerston Ladies Day on Wednesday at the Darwin Turf Club. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Territorians should expect vibrant, tropical colours and the latest Territory trends on display for Rydges Palmerston Ladies’ Day on Wednesday at Darwin Turf Club.

The NT News spoke with Darwin Cup Carnival Ambassador Brooke McManus ahead of the big day to learn the tips and tricks.

“Aside from the Cup, Ladies’ Day is probably one of the biggest days of the carnival,” Ms McManus said.

“The atmosphere is great, and as the name suggests, it’s a nice day for all the girls to get out.

“Ladies Day is also the biggest day for fashion at the carnival — people put a lot of effort into what they wear.

“One thing I have noticed lately is the vibrant colours and patterns on display.

“The overall style is very different to interstate right now where they’re in the middle of winter.

“Another trend is increasingly extravagant millinery (headwear) — it really ties the outfit together.”

Brooke McManus with Beatification ahead of the 2025 Darwin Cup Carnival Ladies Day. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin
Brooke McManus with Beatification ahead of the 2025 Darwin Cup Carnival Ladies Day. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Ms McManus said Darwin racing fashion had become so iconic, it had even featured on On Track On Trend, an Instagram page showcasing the best fashions on the field across the world.

Lynette and Alex. Vibrant, tropical colours and the latest Territory trends will be on display for Rydges Palmerston Ladies’ Day on Wednesday at Darwin Turf ClubPicture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin
Lynette and Alex. Vibrant, tropical colours and the latest Territory trends will be on display for Rydges Palmerston Ladies’ Day on Wednesday at Darwin Turf ClubPicture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

For those who may have left their outfits to the last minute, Ms McManus had some hot tips.

“We have a wonderful selection of seamstresses and dressmakers up here, but if you need something last minute, there’s a lot of local options,” she said.

“Stomp Shoes have bags, shoes and accessories for racewear.

“Pink Hill Boutique, Bread Boutique and Life n Style Boutique are all also great options in the city with a mix of fabulous clothing and accessories.

“There’s also Boutique Hire if you’re travelling and only need something for the day.”

This year’s Darwin Cup Carnival is one of colourful fashion. 2025 Darwin Cup Carnival. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin
This year’s Darwin Cup Carnival is one of colourful fashion. 2025 Darwin Cup Carnival. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Darwin Turf Club CEO Mr Chris Chaffe says Ladies Day remains a Carnival highlight, blending the thrill of racing with elegance and energy.

“Rydges Palmerston Ladies Day is one of the standout events of the Carnival, celebrating the style, grace and elegance that racing is renowned for,” Mr Chaffe said.

The day features two Fashions on the Field competitions. The Ladies Day Pavilion luncheon competition kicks off at 12:45pm, while the general admission contest begins at 3:30pm. Winners and runners-up from both categories will qualify for the grand final on Darwin Cup Day, Monday 4 August.

Cherry Sommerball. Fashions and colour go hand-in-hand the 2025 Darwin Cup Carnival. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin
Cherry Sommerball. Fashions and colour go hand-in-hand the 2025 Darwin Cup Carnival. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

“Fashions on the Field continues to be a major drawcard throughout the Carnival, and we’re proud that some of our past winners have gone on to achieve national recognition,” Mr Chaffe added.

The day promises something for everyone, with a variety of hospitality options available around the course. General Admission patrons can enjoy the Pearl Bar, featuring live entertainment alongside full bar and betting facilities. Tickets will be available at the gate.

Gates open 11am, Adult GA $25, Concession $20, Children under 12 free, Race 1: 2:09pm

Originally published as Darwin Cup Carnival Ladies Day to showcase Territory trends and vibrant tropical fashion

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Original URL: https://www.themercury.com.au/news/northern-territory/darwin-cup-carnival-ladies-day-to-showcase-territory-trends-and-vibrant-tropical-fashion/news-story/c1f76196f17ebc8cc6dbdf5fdc9d8809