Zoe Foster: how to look your best at the races

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What excites you most about spring racing season?

I love arriving at the track. You're all dolled up and feeling good – everyone around you looks sensational, interesting and colourful and is kind of giving each other approving, impressed little glances. There is this lovely mutual feeling of, 'We did good, guys!'

How do you prepare for a day at the races?

What do you mean? I just roll out of bed and chuck on my dress and headwear...AS IF! Obviously I wear shoes, too!! No, 'surprisingly' there is actually a lot of work involved. I do any tanning two days out, have Shellac so my glossy nails will stay pretty the whole cup week, then on the day I will usually have my hair and makeup done professionally, but sometimes just have fun ("panic and mess it up three times") doing it myself.

What are the big trackside trends this season?

Neon. So much neon. Also, pastels and sorbet tones. And finally, masculine-style dressing for the ladies in the shape of tailored jumpsuits, pant suits, fedoras, collars, blouses, trousers and so on.

Would you ever where a jumpsuit?

I tried on a beautiful Camilla and Marc one in the hope it would be my ‘Totally Perfect Derby Day’ outfit, but sadly, a jumpsuit does not always look so flattering on a shorter dame.

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How about accessories?

I stick to headwear only. That should kind of be the focus, I think. Also, in the name of honesty, I find accessories hard.

Who are your favourite designers?

I love Alexander Wang, Acne, Lover, Camilla and Marc, Willow, Ksubi, Manning Cartell, Shakuhachi, Isabel Marant, APC, Miu Miu and approximately four million others.

What do you think makes someone stylish?

Confidence! You can wear a tea towel and look fantastic if you feel fantastic in it. (This is not advised for the Spring Carnival. There is a total tea towel ban in effect this year!)

What will you be drinking trackside?

Chilled Yellowglen Vintage Bella at Yellowglen House of course! And water. Lots of water. To stay ladylike and hydrated.

Related: How to dress for the races

Any tips on how to back a winner?

I don't want to bore you with all of the strategy and science behind it, but in a nut shell: Choose your favourite number, colours or name then GO!

Do you have a lucky charm?

My "gut instinct". And my favourite numbers, obviously.

Finally, what are your top three racing dos and don’ts?

Do remember this is a day event when considering your dress and makeup. Do wear headwear - even if it's simple, it can be effective. Do check the weather and make contingency plans for warmth/hair/shoes.

Don't overload the spray tan, and always have your spray tan two nights before at least (I speak from experience). Don't mistake the track for a nightclub – even though there might be a DJ, this is an elegant day of horses and sartorial finery. Don't take your shoes off. I can't believe I have to even write that!

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