SHOULDERS and midriffs should not be exposed trackside at the May Racing Carnival, and sinamay headpieces should stay on the hat rack until spring racing arrives.
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Ladies and gentlemen planning to enter Fashions on the Field at the May races have been encouraged to heed a few fashion guidelines by one of the judges and local fashion houses.
Warrnambool Racing Club doesn’t have set fashion rules or a dress code, unlike other clubs across the country and internationally.
At Royal Ascot, one of England’s most prestigious race meetings, ladies in the royal enclosure must wear a headpiece, dresses and skirts should be of a modest length defined as falling just above the knee or longer, and dress straps are to be one inch or thicker.
Strapless, off the shoulder, halter neck and spaghetti straps are not permitted and midriffs must be covered.
Gentlemen are required to wear black or grey morning dress, which must include a waistcoat and tie, a black or grey top hat and black shoes.
The May Racing Carnival is nowhere near as formal as Royal Ascot, however ladies and gentlemen have been encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather.
Mangowood owner and one of this year’s Fashions on the Field judges, Kelly Van Haaren, said ladies should be dressed fittingly for autumn.
“There should be no midriffs or crop tops with stomachs exposed,” she said.
Ms Van Haaren said entrants should be mindful of their skirt and dress length.
“The midi length has made a comeback,” she said.
“The longer length is important. There should be no short skirts.”
She said shoulders should definitely be covered and millinery should also be made from autumnal materials.
“Felt and leather headpieces are more appropriate for autumn and winter race meets,” she said.
“Sinamay is a summer fabric. Leather is trans-seasonal and felt is a nice touch in winter.”
Closed toe shoes should be considered, and other accessories such as gloves and a handbag are important.
“Make sure you can walk in them,” Ms Van Haaren said.
“Gloves are a nice finishing touch. It is the little things that people think of that can make a nice outfit a standout.”
Oranges and Lemons owner Helen Flaherty echoed Ms Van Haaren’s comments.
She agreed shoulders should be covered and said felt and leather headpieces were appropriate, as well as including hosiery with skirts and dresses.
“If you want to dress for a winter style, cover up a bit more,” she said.
Gentlemen also need to consider their attire before entering Fashions on the Field and Ms Van Haaren said a well-cut suit that fits perfectly was essential.
“It’s all in the details,” she said.
“Make sure shoes are buffed and a hat is always a nice touch, as is cufflinks.”
She said entrants should definitely wear a tie or bowtie and also take into account their personal grooming.