A SHORT GUIDE TO LOOKING THE PART FOR SPRING CARNIVAL
Having a near perfect attendance to Flemington’s spring racing carnival for the past 8 years. I have seen and learnt a lot about not only horse racing but also the fashion on the field. The annual spring racing calendar allows us to express oneself, It is arguably the biggest week of the fashion calendar here in Australia.
Lets break down the four days at Flemington and how to dress for each of the individual days.
AAMI VICTORIA DERBY DAY - ELEGANT & SOPHISTICATED
Understand and respect the traditions of Derby Day and dress accordingly. Be on your best behaviour! The dress code for Derby Day is Black and White traditionally, however in more recent years grey has become an acceptable modern interpretation of the dress code. Keep in mind that Derby day is the most formal of the 4 days at Flemington and it is best not to break too many rules here. I am a classic type of guy and will always dress in the traditional attire, taking inspiration from the past, and making it relevant today.
I recommend going back to the classics and wearing a full black suit, but really focus on the details here. A double-breasted or three piece suit will allow your outfit to have that little sartorial edge over the crowd. I am wearing a Loro Piana black double breasted suit from Rhodes and Beckett with a white collar pin shirt, polka dot tie with a subtle blue hue through it (matching the official flower of Derby Day the cornflower) and a straight fold white pocket square.
Less is more on Derby Day. Keep it simple and keep it classic.
EMIRATES MELBOURNE CUP DAY - BE BOLD
The Melbourne Cup is ‘The race that stops the nation’. Dress accordingly, have fun with your outfit be bold and really own the look. Experiment with brighter prints and colours to accentuate the spring season, Melbourne Cup is the day to really express your personality through your outfit, do it with confidence.
I love wearing separates for a more relaxed yet refined look, safe options include complimenting colours pairings like navy & grey or beige & olive. Don’t forget your accessories on the day, lapel flowers and pocket squares are a must! Everyone’s style game will be strong; you don’t want to get left at the rear of the pack.
CROWN OAKS DAy - ALL ABOUT THE LADIES
Be a gentleman and let the ladies really shine on Oaks Day. Be subtle with your outfit, think soft pastels, navys, pinks and neutrals for your suit choice and then add a touch of feminine, whether it is through your shirt colour/pattern, tie or pocket square. You can’t go wrong with either florals or paisleys on a day like Oaks Days.
EMIRATES STAKES DAY - KEEP IT TAILORED AND RELAXED
The spring racing carnival winds down with the final day named ‘Stakes Day’. Traditionally Stakes Day is the ‘family day’ of the carnival, therefore dress for comfort, maybe even loose the tie toward the end of the day. Make sure you have a strong suit; a peak lapel number will give you added confidence as you gallop through the last day of the carnival.
End the carnival strong with peak lapels, I am wearing a Loro Piana charcoal grey suit from Rhodes and Beckett and a denim toned collar pin shirt shirt and teal knitted tie (optional). Complete the outfit with woven loafers for that relaxed and effortless look to end the spring carnival festivities.
TIPS:
- Keep it simple.
- Have a strong pocket square fold.
- Accessorise (Hat, sunglasses, umbrella, walking cane, binoculars etc)
- Dress for comfort.
- Attend with chivalry.
- Drink responsibly.
Premium quality fabrics and construction on a classic silhouettes are a signature of Rhodes and Beckett making them an essential destination for the man who wants to elevate his style acumen this spring racing season.
Article supported by Rhodes and Beckett
Photography: Karen Woo
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dress well, drink well. live well
Lex
