HOT TIPS FOR FASHION FILLIES! You’re getting ready for a big day at the races, so what are some tips for making sure you enjoy it? Here is your essential guide to Thoroughbred Park. WHAT TO WEAR?
Dressing for the races is unique. It's a time to unleash your inner princess if you want to look your best among the fashionistas on course.
Here are a couple of simple rules you should follow.
1. DRESS FOR THE DAY
Miss Hope Watson won the Classic Ladies Racewear in 2006
meeting all the elements of the judging criteria. Ladies, if you would wear it to a nightclub, chances are it's not suitable for the racecourse. Think well-cut dresses that fall to the knee or just below, along with contemporary takes on the classic suit. Visit http://www.youtube.com/ and search under Fashions on the Field. Myer stock a selection of contemporary racewear from major designers as well as hats and facinators. The best way to go when choosing a dress is with a style that suits you rather than something trendy. Nothing says fashion victim quite like a lady wearing something trendy that isn't right for her figure. 2. DRESS FOR THE SEASON
 A perfect example of Miss Racegoer outfit
In terms of colour, Spring is the time to embrace bright tones and prints (although traditional black and white is always fashion no matter what the season). In Autumn colour is more subdued - think chocolate browns and neutrals.
Shoes are an important part of your outfit. Sandals in Spring and Summer and pumps or other close toed shoes with stockings in Autumn and Winter.
Suits are more prevalent (and practical) in the cooler months, while a dress is the way to go at the warmer times of year.
Exposed shoulders are not permitted in Classic Ladies Racewear,
however in Miss Racegoer is acceptable.
3. HATS AND FASCINATORS If you are going out to the races you must wear a headpiece of some kind. If you are entering the Ladies Classic Racewear it is an essential requirement. There is an amazing choice of hats, fascinators and other headwear available now. If you are not keen on wearing a hat, or lack confidence in wearing a headpiece, a simple fascinator with feathers can look amazing with the right outfit. Try a neat ponytail with a fascinator tucked in just above your hair tie until your confidence builds.
4. THIS GOES WITH THAT
It may sound old fashioned, but one of the most effective ways to look really well turned out at the races is to match your headpiece with your bag and shoes. Shoulder bags are a must as well, as it is difficult to look the part with your race book and binoculars if you need to hold on to your purse all day.
5. PACK THE ESSENTIALS
Your handbag should contain
*No more money than you can afford to lose on the day (but enough so that you can enjoy a bet or two and catch a bus or a cab safely home).
*Sunglasses.
*Lipstick/Lip gloss – or if you forget, take a trip to the MYER Pamper Lounge (available only at Canberra Cup and Black Opal).
*Wallet, keys etc.
*Phone (handy if you are separated from your friends).
*Band aids (in a blister emergency).
*Small tube of sunscreen (sunburn ruins any look).
*A small umbrella if you can fit it in.
If you lose something, or even if you find something of value you can hand it in or ask at the Thoroughbred Park administration office.
6. KILLER SHOES
We all know the pain we experience when we have to wear heels for up to 5 hours at the races. That doesn't mean that you can't wear heels at the races. It just means be sensible about your shoe selection. Select a pair you have already broken in, and preferably have a slightly thicker heel. Sinking into the grass in your stilettos is not a glamorous way to spend the day and can be quite dangerous and embarrassing should you fall. Exiting the course at day's end carrying your shoes because your feet are too sore to wear them is another faux pas to be avoided.
Those in the know often take a second pair of heels with them and change halfway through the day to save their feet. If you have a bag large enough to do this.
Invest in a pair of ‘party feet’. These feet padding’s in your shoes assist with releasing pressure on your feet and are sold at all good shoe stores.
7. EAT AND REHYDRATE
Make sure you don’t drink on an empty stomach. Thoroughbred Park policy on drinking and Responsible Service of Alcohol is paramount. You can eat at the races from a salad or chicken kebabs at the snack bar to pizza and pancakes! Keep up your water intake too. Dehydration will bring on the hang over the next day! Try to drink a bottle of water in between your drinks – it will help you to stay in control and not experience any embarrassing moments!
Thinking about entering? Click here to see the criteria for each category.
ANY HANDY TIPS FOR THE GENTLEMAN? Suit jacket and a tie are essential. Attention to detail with all aspects of accessories such as gentlemen’s hat and hankerchief really will achieve a dramatic look. Don’t forget a lapel flower – but make sure you get the right flower for the day – Carnations always do the trick, but try to get the same colour as your ladies outfit to complete the look. You can purchase matching cufflinks, ties and hankerchiefs to make sure you will be a crowd favourite.
 Consider your partner when preparing your outfit and maybe you will be the next
Classic Couples Racewear winners! |
