By JASMINE CUNNINGHAM
SHOWERS with a chance of hail, possibility of winds, with the likelihood of gale force winds, cyclonic conditions and a top temperature of 14 degrees. Yes! A sparkle in the eye of the man above was intercepted by weather stations across the district as the 10-day forecast proved rather unsurprising. Was it part of a grand plan to influence the May race fashion pack and potential track side trendsetters to adhere to a more Autumn/Winter wardrobe? Perhaps it was the images of fine young fillies of past carnivals shivering in their cocktail dresses and spring racing fashions. Whatever the reason, I like it!
So to all our fashion savvy sisters and brothers out there beware - the fashion jury is out and you’re a good chance to testify.
WHAT NOT TO WEAR
If you are considering entering fashions on the field and The Standard’s Hot 100, these tips may just assist in securing a win or a place!
*Never wear a summer frock to a winter carnival. There is a small and appropriate window where you can actually wear them here in paradise, however it is not track-side during May.
*Never leave legs bare. Not only is this imperative given the current climatic conditions, but it is one of the biggest cardinal sins of Autumn race fashion. If you absolutely have to bare your all, opt for an opaque, patterned tight or stocking. Flesh coloured stockings are allowed but are yet to hit haute couture runways.
*Don’t show off your fresh new pedicure in last seasons strappy sandals or havianas - big no no.
*Guys, unless you have been signed as the next Ken Done 80’s resurgence poster boy, fuscia, aqua, lemon or forest green suits are best left in the ‘pool room’ at home.
SO WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
With Australian fashion week less than a week away, predictions for the upcoming season still include snippets from key trends currently on offer in stores. These include:
* Leather, which is popping up everywhere - from blazer styles to cropped jackets, dresses, fitted skirts and accessories.
* Faux fur, which is not going anywhere! Amp up your outfit with a faux fur jacket, cape, capelet or gillet.
* Trench coats, great over anything and even better with personalised touches such as contrast belts, ribbons and bows.
* Lace, lace and more lace. Long-sleeve dresses, blazers, jackets, tights and headwear. The epitome of femininity.
* Peplum. Anything from dresses to jackets to 2 piece suiting, peplum is a great style to emphasise a feminine silhouette with a tapered waist and small flared panelling.
* Accessorise but don’t overdo it. Make sure you complete your look with suitable accessories such as hats, fascinators, gloves, tights or stockings, a matching handbag or clutch and footwear that is appropriate to trackside conditions is a must when piecing it all together.
AND YES GUYS YOU TOO HAVE CERTAIN STYLE OBLIGATIONS
* Always go for the ‘whole package’ - no, I’m not referring to your wives, girlfriends or prospective game, rather the suit, shirt and tie combo that simply states that you care. Who knows - maybe you will attract more than just cash to the wallet on the day?
* Current colour trends in suiting include grey, charcoal and single breasted, but don’t panic - black suits are classic, classy and fail-safe.
* Shirts and ties, whilst much easier on the eye if matched, can be as simple as opting for a crisp white shirt with a stunning coloured tie. And although slim ties have found a more permanent home in menswear departments, size does not seem to matter here!
*Go for a leather shoe. No thick rubber soles, or Blundstones required!
* And lastly, ‘mencessorise'! (Yes, a new addition to the local fashion dictionary). Men and accessories go together like chalk to a blackboard. Sophisticated accessories include cufflinks, a belt, gloves, money clips, and a watch.
So remember - be on your best fashion behaviour and get your backside trackside.
* Jasmine Cunningham is the manager/buyer for Mix It Up and Mixture Boutique in Warrnambool.
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