A day at the races is always filled with fun, laughs and excitement. Often however, the lead up to the big event can be anything but a walk in the park! There’s the dress code to consider, the weather, current trends, what shoes, what to take (forget about who to bet on!) – it’s enough to put even the most seasoned race-goers into a fluster. If this is your first year attending the carnival, or you just want to improve your game, my top 10 tips may assist!
1. Think ladylike: Leave the mini skirts and sequins to those that don’t know better. A typically traditional affair, the races make a great place to showcase your elegant and sophisticated side. Flatter your figure with a well-cut dress that reaches the knee. Leave the boob-tubes and skimpy tops to other occasions.
2. Invest in a beautiful hat: Fascinators have had their day, and you’ll look so much more “the part” sporting a beautiful hat instead. Whilst the big, crazy hats favoured by the A-list certainly catch everyone’s attention, choose a hat that you’re comfortable in and that is timeless enough to be worn season after season.
3. Lace veils are in: If you’re after something new, one of the biggest headwear trends for 2014 is the lace veil across the eyes. Safest to stick to black, this vintage look spells sophisticated and sexy. Whilst not traditional race day attire the look is appropriate and right on trend.
4. Say NO to work clothes: A day at the races calls for more than weekday work wear, so choose a dress with a little added wow-factor. Think bold prints, a full skirt, a colour that pops, an interesting neckline, or other embellishment. Leave the all-black combos to the office - this can look overly somber (not to mention boring!) in bright spring daylight.
5. The shoes have it: Don’t let your shoes let you down. A day at the races is often long, with the majority of the day spent standing (on turf no less.) You’ll need a super comfortable and well-made shoe, with a thicker heel if possible to avoid sinking into the lawn.
6. Up the ante with accessories: Add a fun and quirky side to your ladylike silhouette with accessories. Set off a plain dress with a bright clutch or heels; add a statement necklace to basic necklines. Matching nail poilsh is another easy way to co-ordinate your look.
7. Hot for Hoisery: A plain dress can pop with the addition of interestingly-patterned black hosiery. You’ll also skip the need to fake tan which not only saves time, it won’t have you dripping orange if it happens to rain!
8. Consider the temperature: It goes without saying, but the weather will play a huge part in your race day look and overall comfort. If you’re planning a long day, don’t fall prey to the oversized men’s jacket over-the-shoulders-look when the temperature drops. Not only does this look amateurish, it’ll ruin your style! Cover your bases by taking a small tailored jacket or shrug for the shoulders in early Spring.
9. Avoid excess baggage: First up, don’t take your everyday bag – it’ll likely be too big and won’t match your carefully considered race day get up. A good-sized clutch or a medium sized handbag you can carry by hand is the way to go.
10. Handbag essentials: Do not leave the house without these essentials (you can thank me later) Top of the list are: SUNGLASSES, a makeup compact for touch ups, lipstick or gloss, bandaids, and of course….. your form guide!
