How to stand out during Spring racing season

THE TAB Everest, the world’s richest race on turf, is set to be Australia’s most anticipated sporting event this year. With one of the biggest events on the social calendar right around the corner, it’s important to start sizing up what to wear.

Hugh Bowman riding 'Winx' prior to The Longines Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Royal Randwick Racecourse. Photo: Jason McCawley

THE TAB Everest, the world’s richest race on turf, is set to be Australia’s most anticipated sporting event this year. With one of the biggest events on the social calendar right around the corner, it’s important to start sizing up what to wear.

With one of the biggest events on the social calendar right around the corner, it’s important to start sizing up what to wear.

This year, The Fashion Chute presented by Vogue, returns to Royal Randwick for the world’s richest turf race, The TAB Everest, to find the most stylish and sophisticated spring racing outfit. Here, racegoers can enter by being photographed at The Fashion Chute, located in the Lifestyle Precinct, before eight finalists are judged by the likes of Roxy Jacenko, Carissa Walford, Nerida Winter and Vogue’s editor-in-chief, Edwina McCann.

So what should one wear to stand out from the eclectic swarm of ornate crowns, whimsical fabrics and feminine florals? According to Edwina, these handy hints should do the trick.

BE BOLD WITH COLOUR – While black is a favourite at Vogue, there are a few occasions better than the races to celebrate colour. If bright block colour feels too strong, try experimenting with print or choose classic shades. Right now red and navy are having a moment and each can easily carry a race-day look.

START WITH THE HAT – Beginning with millinery is the easiest formula for dressing on race day. Choosing the headpiece sets the tone of an outfit, making it simpler to choose a matching dress, shoes and accessories. What should be avoided, is selecting a hat in a rush, leaving you with something you’re not entirely happy with (and uncomfortable with) on race day.

TAKE NOTE OF TRADITIONS (BUT KEEP IT FASHIONABLE) – There are a lot of deep-rooted traditions, and aside from guaranteeing entry, following them keeps you on the right side of elegant. The Australian Turf Club website has lots of information on dress codes. One to remember for spring is no felt millinery – think straw instead.

SUPPORT LOCAL DESIGNERS - A day at the races is a favourite national pastime and the perfect arena to showcase Australian design. Choosing an Australian designer has the added advantage of having a piece that is designed with our climate in mind – a blessing come warm spring days. While we love homemade on some occasions, Vogue loves it even more when a look calls out our incredible design talents.

Originally published as How to stand out during Spring racing season