It’s that time of year. Dust off your fascinators, fish out your hatbox, line up your sturdiest heels: it’s the Spring Racing Carnival, and it’s time to get yourself a new dress. But the dress code for a day at the races can vary radically depending on where you’re going – so we’ve got you covered for every eventuality.
Spring racing has a feel all of its own. Less formal than a wedding, more prim than an evening out, it’s a throwback to the days where women wore gloves and hats to every outing and men were obliged to wear waistcoats or look basically naked. Fortunately these days we’re a lot less restricted, but certain things are still off the menu. Count these out: too much leg, too-low necklines, risqué slits and anything that would distract the horses. Some places have strict rules about hemlines, straps and visible arm, so check before you venture off.
We also know that spring racing can be an expensive business. The binoculars, the hat, the perfect bet on your favourite: it all adds up. So our fashion edit for the Spring Racing Carnival has dresses for all budgets, whether you’re splurging or just going out on the turf for a little fun. Jockeys at the ready – we’re off!