Yahoo Lifestyle Spring Racing Tips From Jennifer Hawkins
Jennifer Hawkins. Photo by Getty Images.alt=Jennifer Hawkins.
Which designers will you be wearing over the Spring Racing Carnival?
Myer has an amazing stable of Australian Designers, so I have felt like a kid in a candy shop! I always try to mix things up and wear a different designer to each race day, so I certainly have a few different options planned - but you will just have to wait and see!
What do you choose first: the hat or the dress?
This year I started with the dress. But my general rule of thumb is to try to plan my millinery a few months out, as it is an artform that can take weeks to perfect. I also like the idea of having the designer of my dress work closely with the milliner throughout the design process!
How do you avoid hat disasters?
It’s important not to wear millinery that is too over the top - that gets in the way of other patrons. Pointy and oversized millinery can take an eye out when you're mingling in the marquee! Balance is key.
What is your beauty schedule?
I try to ensure I have a few days of down time in the lead up, as a day at the races is a very long day - especially in heels. I treat myself to a mani/pedi (I always get a neutral colour so I don't take away from the dress and millinery) and of course a splash of J Bronze fake tan. Then on race day I try to stay hydrated and apply lots of sunscreen throughout.
What’s your handbag of choice?
A clutch of course, as it completes any outfit, and I don’t need to carry much: just my race tickets, lip balm, my phone, sunscreen and perfume.
Any tips trackside to backing a winner?
My dad gives me a few cheeky tips, but I mostly just like the atmosphere of being trackside.
Race day no-nos?
Men wearing white shoes!
Best fashion tips for the Carnival?
Dress appropriately for each race day in an elegant and sophisticated way that is suited to the climate. Don’t wear an outfit that it too revealing and don’t wear new shoes!
Dress Codes
Each day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival comes with its own set of rules. Break them at your peril.
AAMI Victoria Derby Day
• Stylish, classic and elegant
• Black and white theme for women
• Men usually in grey morning suit, lounge suit or dark jacket
Emirates Melbourne Cup Day
• Fashion is fun – colourful, daring (and sometimes OTT)
• Fancy dress is a common theme in the carparks
• Most men opt for a smart suit with a yellow rose in the lapel
Crown Oaks Day
• It’s the Ultimate Style Day so dress to impress
• Ladylike and feminine is the look for women
• Men usually in smart suit with softer coloured shirt and tie and a pink rose or kerchief for the lapel
Emirates Stake Day
• More relaxed, yet remains style-focused
• It is the family day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, so all the young ones dress up
• Red rose is the lapel flower of the day
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