October / November 2003 Newsletter

Spring Racing

You can almost feel it in the air. The lure of the race caller, the pounding of the horses’ hooves down the straight and the roar of the crowd as their favourite crosses the winning post.

I’m sorry I thought I was writing for “GQ”. That first paragraph should read you can almost fee it in the air. The lure of the spring fashion, the pounding of high heels down High Street and the roar of success as you find the exact hat to match your outfit.

So what comes first, the hat or the frock? Well, if you are having both made then inspiration is required first. But if you are going out shopping for exactly the right outfit to wear then both choices are likely to do your head in.

Millinary friends of mine would vow that the hat must come first and the outfit can be found to match. Fashion friends would, of course, recommend you choose your outfit then accessorise. That is a tough call, I know from past race seasons that it is easier often to find or alter a hat to go with an outfit. Just the other day, I was asked the suitability of a black fascinator with a black dress, silver shoes and silver handbag. Yes it will match but as I advised my friend by adding a touch of silver to the fascinator will make it part of her outfit and not just another accessory.

You are probably wondering what is in fashion; the answer is fascinators, feathers and butterflies. Not necessarily in any particular order.

The true racing fashion aficionado will know that the fascinator is fun but the hat is true racing fashion. Mind you, many race goers don’t even leave the car park. They wear their outfit once and the fascinator will not give them hat hair when they go out at the end of the day.

My suggestion for having a fabulous racing carnival;

1. Choose a head piece/hat that compliments your outfit.
2. Ensure this head piece/hat will remain in place even when a brisk wind blows.
3. Choose colour that will compliment you - especially the hat as it is right next to your face.
4. If your hat/head piece does not exactly match, go to a millinary supplier such as Myers, David Jones, Spotlight or Lincraft and add the missing colour.
5. Remember you could be on your feet all day so plan to wear the most comfortable, least sensible shoe you have. If that makes sense.
6. Carry a compact to dust yourself down and a lipstick to gloss yourself up.
7. If you are short, don’t wear a wide brimmed hat, no one will see your face.
8. If you have long hair and are wearing a hat, take the top layer of your hair and wear it in a loose twist under your hat. At the end of the day when you remove your hat your hair won’t be straight but neither will it have a hat ring around it.
9. Match your fingernail and toe nail polish if you are wearing sandals.
10. Keep your head up, smile and you too will be a winner on the day.

Traditionally there are certain colours, flowers and styles associated with the Spring Carnival. For you and your man, the following guide should help you in your selection.

Caulfield Cup - Lily of the Valle -elegantly stylish
Cox Plate - Cecil Bruner Rose
Derby - Corn Flower - black/white, traditional suit
Melbourne Cup - Yellow rose - colourful/flamboyant
Oaks - Pink rose - light colours
Emirates Stakes Red rose - casual relaxed (family day)

So whatever you decide to go, have a great Spring Carnival and I’ll meet you in the Champagne bar to celebrate!

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