The Melbourne Cup kicked off the start of the racing season here and across the Tasman. And even if you're not quite brave enough to enter yourself into one of the various fashion parades that come hand and hand with most race days, it's fun to get dressed up nonetheless. Follow these tips to ensure your outfit turns heads for all the right reasons.
Take your pick
The first thing you'll need to think about is choosing a frock that will see you through the day. This season, expect to see an abundance of feminine floral prints, bold colours and white on the fashion field. Floral prints and colour are the safe yet fashionable option and though white looks stunning - as Liz Hurley proved at Flemington - it's sometimes not the best choice to wear all day long if you are going to be wining and dining. Races are often daylong events that continue into the evening, so choose an outfit you'll feel comfortable in. Avoiding strapless dresses with boning is often a good idea as after a few hours they can start to dig in and constantly adjusting them up if they are a little too big is never a flattering look. Remember, the key to fashionable sophistication is finding the perfect balance of comfort and style.
If the shoe fits
We all know that footwear can make or break any outfit but we sometimes forget this doesn't solely depend on aesthetic value. No matter how good that pair of killer heels may look, if you can't walk in them they will end up detracting from your outfit. Consider how much of the day you're going to spend on your feet. If it's going to be a long day of standing, then opt for shoes with a lower, sturdy heel. Also think about whether you'll be inside or outside - damp grass and stiletto heels are far from a match made in heaven.