Spring Race Day Style

Spring Racing, where style and tradition are the most important elements of the day.

The Spring Racing Carnival is one of my favourite times of the year. I love the tradition behind the race days and how serious race-goers are about the style element.

In Australia, we often take the casual route when it comes to fashion - jeans, cut-off shorts and dare I say it, thongs, are a big part of daily life. However, when it comes to race days, ladies and gentlemen pull out all the stops to ensure they look the part.

Here are a few race day rules I have put together for ladies, based on Victorian Racing Club's dress codes.

Race Day Style Rules:

Dress lengths should be kept below the knee. Think elegant at all times.
No midriffs. Although crop tops are on trend this season, save the look for the weekend or wear a high waisted skirt so no flesh is showing.
No spagetti straps.
Headwear is a must.
Opt for sensible shoes. There are no excuses for taking off your shoes at the end of the day.
Sensible, however, does not mean flats, which tend to lack grace. Wear a heel that you can survive in for most of the day, then later on change into flats.
Dress for the weather. It's not a good look wearing a windbreaker over a beautiful dress.
Pants must be tailored.
Follow the colours of the day. i.e. On Derby Day, keep it black and white, there are opportunities to wear colour on other race days.

Marks & Spencer Derby Day Breakfast at Entrecôte. Photo: Katie Fergus

On Derby Day I was invited to Marks & Spencer's Derby Day Breakfast held at the charming Entrecôte in South Yarra. Sipping on Mumm champagne and chatting to fellow bloggers, it was the perfect way to start the race day. Thank you Shopping Links for the stylish morning!

Lei xx