Spring Racing Fashion

There is no doubt that Spring in Melbourne is an exciting time.  We joyously celebrate the end of winter and remain ever hopeful that the sunny breaks will turn into a long hot summer.

Major social and sporting events fill our spring calendars, and none more anticipated that the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival.

Do we like horse racing?  Not particularly, but we do like to dress up.  It is one of the few events of the year where it is impossible to be over primed, preened or presented.




Things I'd like to see at the races:

• Vintage / second hand - you don't have to buy a brand new frock to look amazing.  Your local vintage store or op shop will be brimming with outfits that are either ready-to-wear or ready-to-reinvent.  

• Innovation - there is nothing worse than standing in line for the bathroom next to someone in exactly the same dress.  The best way to avoid this is to come up with something truly unique.  Being fashion extroverted is not everyone's cup of tea, but I am very much looking forward to seeing what the talented ladies of Melbourne will put together.

• Colour - Life is far to short to wear dreary colours such as black.  This is definitely the season to wear some colour.  I hope to see some amazingly colourful outfits.

• Individual style -  let your individual style run wild and dress to suit your personality. My tip is to pick a point of inspiration, such as a person, decade or period in fashion, and pull out all the stops to mimic this style.  

Things I don't want to see at the races:

• Cracked heels - if you are slipping into some fancy footwear, be sure that your heels, toes and general foot related epidermis issues are smoothed, trimmed or hidden.   

• Bare toenails - there are thousands of nail polishes available, so what a great opportunity to treat yourself to a pedicure before your event.  It's the little details that will make your outfit look finished.

• Too much skin - if you are not the taught and terrific type, then too much skin can detract from the fact that you are gorgeous.  No need to wear a sack, just be sure that you corral any parts of you that flap or fold.  The right dress for your body shape will show off all the good bits and disguise all the wobbly bits.

• Intoxication - especially if it involves carrying your shoes or exposing your undies.

• Sunburn - unattractive and unhealthy.  Apply sunscreen before you head out and take a small bottle with you for re-application.

Horses too go through a complete grooming ritual prior to any big race meeting.  They are washed, conditioned brushed and given a new set of shoes ... and lots of affection from their strappers.  

I don't head to the races as often as I used to, which is code for 'now my corporate life is over, so too is the annual fancy marquee invitation'!   Ho hum ... which code for 'If you have a fancy marquee, please invite me'!