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Fashions on the Field

Fashions on the Field has become an integral part of race day culture, adding an extra element of excitement, sophistication and glamour to the racing experience.

Attendees of race days are encouraged to partake in this event by wearing elegant and fashionable attire, ranging from suits and dresses to hats, fascinators, and accessories, all with the aim of catching the eye of judges and fellow attendees alike. This competition involves a panel of judges who evaluate participants based on predetermined criteria, with an array of prestigious prizes up for grabs.

The glamour and allure of Fashions on the Field will once again grace Thoroughbred Park during the John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes Day on March 10, 2024.

Canberra Times - Fashions on the Field

With one of the most anticipated events on the Fashion calendar fast approaching at the John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes Day, it’s time to get your race day outfit ready. Fashions on the Field will be returning on the 10th of March sponsored by the Canberra Times giving you an excuse to get dressed up in your best race day attire. This day is as much about extravagant fashion as it is about horse racing.

Returning MC Kristen Davidson from Amplify CBR would love to see the official flower of Black Opal, the Pink Rose incorporated.

“Colour, individuality, and style are always on show in Canberra for race days.” Davidson said.

There will be a variety of exceptional prizes to be won on the day for the most glamorous, elegant, and classy competitors who know how to complete their look with accessories and a smile. If there was ever a time to experiment with your style and step out of your comfort zone it’s at this year’s Fashions on the Field.

If you’re on the hunt for your next show-stopping outfit, why not have a look at our local treasures? We have collaborated with Hunter & Siren Boutiques and Ford Millinery to bring you a range of glamorous and playful fashion pieces for this race day.

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Canberra Times - Fashions on the Field

Key Information

Black Opal Stakes 2024 is set to be the biggest and best race day Thoroughbred Park has ever experienced.

Giddy Up – we hope to see you strutting your stuff on Fashions On The Field.

We are looking for you a complete look that oozes style and authenticity. Please take inspiration from current fashion trends and have fun! Be YOU!

The official flower of Black Opal is the Pink Rose, it is always nice to see that incorporated but not essential.

It is recommended that your outfit has not been entered in a fashion’s competition previously.

Best Dressed

· Must be 18

· Style and Originality

· Appropriateness of outfit for a day at the races

· Attention to detail of hat, bag, jewellery, shoes.

· The use of Millinery

· Consider an outfit that is timeless and elegantly coordinated

· Grooming and deportment.

Best Suited

· Style and Originality.

· Appropriateness of outfit for a day at the races.

· Attention to detail of accessories, such as cufflinks, lapel flower, hat, and handkerchief should be considered.

· Jacket optional, tie / bowtie essential.

Millinery

· Style and design of the millinery.

· Originality, concept of the design theme and wearability.

· Quality and workmanship of the millinery. Elements including technique, line and trim.

· Appropriateness of the millinery for the races, the individual and the outfit.

· All competitors must have appropriate racewear to complement their headwear.

Judges

  • Nick Rysk
  • Britt Croker
  • Janette Wojitaski
  • Kody Leigh-McGlone

Heat Times

Registration- 11:30am - 12:40pm 

Heat 1 (Best Dressed): 12:45 (R1 - 12:35pm & R2 - 13:11pm)  

Heat 2 (Best Dressed): 1:15 (R2 - 13:11pm & R3 - 13:46pm)  

Heat 3 (Best Suited): 13:50 (R3 - 13:46pm & R4 - 14:23pm)  

Finals: 15:10 (R5- 15:02 & R6 - 15:42)  

Prizes

This years Fashions on the Field prizes are still to be finalised. This year we have taken a local approach to our prize pool, partnering with businesses in the Canberra area to enhance promotional outreach and support our local community. This collaborative effort not only enriches the prize offerings but also strengthens ties within the Canberra business landscape.

We are proud to announce QT Canberra as our major prize offering on the day. QT Canberra have kindly donated 3 x 1 night stays in a luxurious QT King Room plus breakfast for 2 at their exceptional Capitol Bar & Grill. QT Canberra is an iconic establishment that is steeped in Australian political history. QT Canberra is a unique designer hotel that celebrates its history through bold design, a mix of quirky artefacts, bespoke furniture and daring use of colour and art. Home to award-winning Capitol Bar & Grill, QT Canberra is loved by locals and guests alike.

Some of the additional prize offerings include:

  • Hunter & Siren Boutique Voucher
  • Aesthetics & Wellness Collective Ainslie Voucher
  • The Skyn Lounge Voucher
  • 98 Gym Canberra Membership Pass
  • Fenway Public House Woden Food & Beverage Voucher
  • Ford Millinery Voucher
  • The Ruc Food & Beverage Vouchers
  • The Raiders Membership & Signed Jersey
  • 121 Hair Queanbeyan Voucher