Gear up for Australia’s Spring Racing Carnival with these must-haves

HATS OFF

Kicking off the Melbourne Spring Carnival 2007 on 10 October is the Millinery Collection 2007 fashion parade, which has set the tone for the racing festivities for the last eight years. Milliners show off their creations during the luncheon show and the more formal evening parade at Flemington Racecourse. The highlight is typically the Million Dollar Hat, designed this year by Queensland-based milliner Tracey Mackinnon, who has created oneoff originals for the last nine years. For bookings, call tel: 1300 727 575 within Australia.

HOW FASCINATING

Check out the latest fascinators to hit the shops during racing season. Sometimes even more elaborate than hats, fascinators draw the eye and complete your look. Jendi, one of Australia’s most fashion-forward accessories label, has a wide range to choose from. The Jendi blue fascinator (pictured) retails for AU$45. Tel: +61 (2) 9565 1322 for stockists.

GET HANDS ON

If you view the Spring Racing Carnival as an opportunity to show off your creativity, pop into Spotlight for all the materials you’ll need (and plenty you don’t!) to put together a unique fascinator or hat. There’ll be DIY craft sheets on hand to guide you every step of the way. Tel: 1300 305 405 within Australia.

PERFECT VISION

To keep your eye on the winning strides of your favourite horse, you need a pair of binoculars that not only do the job but look like you mean business as well. The Barska Lucid View binoculars, with 12-times magnification, fully-coated optics and rubber-armouring to protect against hard knocks, retail for AU$69.95. Tel: 1800 209 999 within Australia for stockists.

DRESS UP

Your decision regarding The Dress to wear to the spring races just became a little easier. Miss Savage, a young fashion label that began in Brisbane is bringing in a maxi dress specially designed for the races. In three signature prints, this dress can be complemented with either a fascinator or a hat; add a nifty clutch and you’re ready to roll! AU$89.95; tel: +61 (7) 3394 2501.

Leona Edmiston, one of Australia’s leading designers, started her eponymous solo label in 2001 after almost 20 years as half of Morrissey Edmiston. Starting out with dresses – which are still the core of the business – the Leona Edmiston range has expanded to include eyewear, shoes, hosiery and accessories. The label counts Elle McPherson, Tyra Banks and Drew Barrymore among its fans.

What’s the signature Leona Edmiston style?
Feminine, flirty, chic, stylish, never fussy.

What’s the motivation behind your designs?
The desire to make women look and feel their best, enhancing the positive and hiding any negatives.

Why do you look forward to the Spring Racing Carnival every year?
It’s a terrific chance to wear a fabulous outfit and enjoy the spectacle of thousands of others looking fantastic.

What are the major fashion faux pas one can make at the races?
The biggest mistake is dressing inappropriately for the weather on the day, which makes you miserable and looks a bit silly. It’s the one occasion that it’s impossible to over-dress for; it’s a carnival after all.

How does one decide between a hat and a fascinator?
Try some on and see what suits your face and outfit. There are no right or wrongs; go with whatever you fall in love with.

What are the colours to wear?
Certain race days have colour codes, and you can stick to them or break the rules. Brights are big [this year], especially the primaries: red, yellow and blue.

What advice do you have for first-time race-goers?
Dress up and enjoy! It’s so much fun.

For stockists of Leona Edmiston, call +61 (2) 9331 7177.