Australian mega-retailer and industry giant David Jones had the weather gods on their side for the first MSFW Hub runway of the year. Spring has well and truly sprung, and what better way to ring in a picturesque Melbourne day than with a celebration of colour, fun, and frivolity; all things Spring Racing.
Hosted by racing royalty and David Jones Racewear Ambassador Emma Freedman and Caulfield Cup Carnival’s Fashion & Social Ambassador (a job we’d volunteer for in a heartbeat) Kasia Z, the parade showcased looks suitable for each major race day with every piece available in store and online now at David Jones.
The festivities kicked off with a trend forecast for Derby Day. Freedman tells us this is a day for ‘racing purists’; the best of the best horses race on Derby Day, and the stakes are just as high off the track as they are on. Racegoers are advised to stick to a purely monochromatic palette on Derby Day and as colour experimentation is more or less off limits, Kasia suggests playing with more directional shapes and textures; a leather shift dress by Nicholas or a Scanlan & Theodore peplum top with matching tuxedo pant will ensure your black and white ensemble is far from boring.
For Melbourne Cup Day, we’re encouraged to bring our sartorial A games; think bold colours and bold fascinators. Men can brighten up a classic suit with a Spring-themed tie or pocket square. It also appears that the “man-bag” is back in a big way; “perhaps to carry all of your winnings out of the track or to carry multiple form guides?” suggested Freedman with tongue firmly in cheek.
As Oaks Day is traditionally known as ‘Ladies Day’, we’re presented with a range of feminine frocks in soft laces and ice cream hues. A similar aesthetic comes into play for Caulfield Guineas; a touch of pink is advised here with a throwback to what Freedman refers to as “1950s Parisian Chic”. Across the board, elegance is encouraged. Comfortable footwear reigns supreme, particularly if you’re spending the day trackside, and a knee length piece will never go out of style. When in doubt, opt for a classic, structured dress and jazz it up with a slightly more trend driven headpiece; a must have for the Spring Racing Carnival.
Having trouble making a decision with so many labels on offer? David Jones offers a free personal styling service to make race day dressing a breeze. Visit your local David Jones store to meet with a Style Advisor today; no appointment necessary!
Images by Reanne Signorelli
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