Spring is here and race day is approaching fast. Wingatui Melbourne Cup Day is easily one of the most momentous fashion events of the season.
Each year brings a showcase of elevated style as local race day attendees bring it all.
When planning a race day ensemble it can be hard to know where to start.
For me, a colour palette can set the mood for any occasion.
This season, I forecast the latest in colour trends to help set the esthetic and aesthetic direction of your race day attire.
On the green in emerald
With an on-trend colour such as emerald green as your base, the rest of your styling will be a breeze. Seek minimal silhouettes with dramatic details.
This Camilla and Marc Gesa dress (above left) sets the tone for this season’s trending colour. In emerald green with oversized blousant (French for loose-fitting) sleeves, this dramatic, metallic lurex dress is sure to be the envy on the green this race day.
For something a little more playful, I love this Ruby Luca crop top paired with the Ruby Luca trousers (above right). The tie detailing at the back is the perfect accent for a race day piece.
If you’re looking for sleek, local fashion stores do not fall short. This Moochi Shutter dress (above left) or Storm Satin Midi frill dress (above right) fit the brief.
Complete your emerald ensemble with gold shoes and accessories.
I especially love these Pomona Hoops (above) as a high end, statement earring to complete your look.
Let the sun shine in yellow
Yellow has shone through season after season as a prominent on-trend colour. This season, we’re taking it bright and blinding.
This Dangerbirds La La Jumpsuit (above left) in the colour Sunshine is my top pick for this colour trend. Easy to dress up or down, this item is a striking addition to your wardrobe for race day and beyond.
Alternatively, a bright yellow print sings with race day appeal. Opt for this cute, contemporary dress (above right) by New Zealand designer Juliette Hogan. The Gail Dress is made from luxurious damas silk and features a plunging neckline and skirt that falls delicately at the waist.
If you’re feeling sunshine shy, get among this colour trend with the bold yellow footwear of New Zealand designer Kathryn Wilson styled with a classic white dress (above right).
Break the rules in black
Black is not the first colour that comes to mind for race day fashion, but black can be just as bold as any vibrant colour.
Go glam with this Harper Tank Dress (above left) by local designer Charmaine Reveley. Sheer with a simple, straight silhouette, this piece is the perfect canvas for its statement gold sequin motif.
Carrying through with this botanical theme is the Sibila dress (above right) by New Zealand Designer Kate Sylvester. Sheer, with a slip included, this flattering A-line piece features Sylvester’s exclusive Falling Poppies print.
For a more minimal look opt for the Moya dress (above left) by Mina. With clean lines and a simple cut, this dress is organically beautiful. Mina is an ethical New Zealand brand that has just recently crossed my radar and is one to watch.
Embellish your ensemble with cleverly curated statement accessories.
Whether it be a fascinator, choker (above right) crown (below) or hat seek out unique pieces that align with your personal style in blacks, glitters and golds. Go vintage if possible.
Across the board in burgundy
Burgundy is a deep, dark red that verges on brown. For those trying to creep away from black, a burgundy is a safe option that suits most skin tones. Seen as a sensual colour, it’s best worn juxtaposed with a more conservative silhouette.
This Elaine dress (above left) by twentyseven names bestows the best of ’90s fashion in a contemporary, summer dress. Long-sleeved, ankle length with tiers of silk this dress makes for a great race day impression. If you’re a Seinfeld fan, you’ll find this ode to Elaine particularly clever.
For something a little more romantic, you’ll fall in love with this Fantasy maxi dress (above right) by Karen Walker from her collection Love Letter. The delicate crinkle georgette creates charming design lines from gathered fabric.
I’ve also included this lustrious wrap-style silk dress (above left) by Ingrid Starnes for the more amourous reader.
If you’re feeling extra on-trend, play with the current clashing print trend seen here with the Witchery Fleur silk cami, styled with the Ren wide leg pants (above right). I love this duo as a race day alternative to a dress that remains equally as flirty and feminine.
Keep accessories red-toned, gold or pearl (below) to sustain a romantic appeal.
You can bet on it in blue
Blue is the colour of elegance, so what could be more fitting attire for race day? This year, we saw an array of sky blues woven through the fashion calendar.
As we near the end of the year, the palette shifts into powder blue. This colour is showcased in a variety of styles. Suiting up can be a divergent approach to race day fashion.
I was drawn to this Karen Walker aria jacket (above left) as a substitute for a standard suit blazer. For a more casual race day look, Charmaine Reveley’s Tahlia dress (above right) is cute in cotton. The flute sleeve is a particularly sweet detail.
I was captured by this Ingrid Starnes Violetta shirt dress (above left) for its sophistication and versatility. The gentle ruffle down the button stand is a lovely race day detail.
This softness carries through to this classic race day piece by Forever New (above right). A soft layered skirt cinched at the waist balances a set of sleeves that turn up the volume.
Powder blues are best styled with metallic silvers and greys. I will forever be styling with Holly Howe Collection pieces. I’m especially drawn to her Diamond Void Studs in Silver.
