Raceday style guide: What you need to know to dress well for the races

I personally gave up attending the races years ago, and yet while I don't miss the races themselves, I definitely do miss curating my outfits each year.

Fashion and style have always been synonymous with the races, from the early Parisian couturiers who saw the events as the perfect place to showcase their latest designs, to the Royal Family who established Royal Ascot in 1711, one of the most glamorous yet traditional races, and finally to the millions of men and women for whom the races prompts them into sartorial action each year.

So if you're one of the many who'll be heading trackside this year, here is my fail-safe guide to help you create your very own stand-out race day style.

Know the rules

The races are the perfect opportunity to experiment and have fun with your outfits, but make sure they are in keeping with the dress codes. Both Flemington and Caulfield have Style Guides that you can consult so you know the levels of dress and standards expected. Even if you aren't in a corporate or members area, you should still maintain modesty and dress in smart day wear. Leave your Saturday night party wear at home.

Each day is different

Whatever race you're heading to, decide appropriately for the occasion by understanding the atmosphere and them of each day first:

• Caulfield Cup - while there is no set theme, think modern or classic Spring dressing
• Derby Day - traditional black and white colour scheme
• Melbourne Cup - the most distinguished of all the days, opt for something that befits a formal occasion and add some colour and personality
• Oaks Day - ladies day, so the perfect place for Spring florals, lace, pastels and more feminine designs 

Choose sophistication and elegance

When Jean Shrimpton turned up to Derby Day in 1976 with her mini dress a shocking 10cm above her knee, it caused an outrage and scandal amongst race goers and the press, both here and around the world. Heaven knows what those same racegoers and media would think of some of the outfits that make it through the turnstiles today. While the way we dress has significantly changed since the 60's, one thing hasn't, and will never, go out of style - sophistication and elegance - two things that Jean had in spades, even with her mini dress and bare legs.

The races are no place for bare midriffs or ample skin anywhere on show. Ditto for see-through and strapless. Dresses should fall just above the knee, or longer. Remember, sophistication and elegance. 

Style that goes the distance

The races are a long day - and most likely you will need to walk some considerable distance, and stand for lengthy periods of time - so comfort is paramount. Start with choosing a style that flatters your figure and emphasises your assets, in a colour that complements your natural colouring. Then, bring your individual personality and style into the mix, with clothes that feel good for you to wear. The races can be a great opportunity to experiment and try something new, but to really have stand-out style, you've got to feel comfortable and confident.

Choose your shoes with care and don't fall victim and leave the races barefoot, shoes in hand - a major fashion crime. Comfort will carry you through the day and leave you looking as stylish as you entered. If you can't handle stilettos, go for a mid-or block heel. Pop in some Party Feet foot gels and take a pair of stylish flats for later.

To hat or not?

Along with her mini dress, Jean Shrimpton was also the first lady to forgo a hat with her outfit - but surely this is all part of the fun of dressing for the races, so I say go all out with this! After all, how often do you get to don a hat or fascinator these days? Try the gorgeous designs from Emily Winter (from Derby and Power), your local retailer or rent one (see my tips for rental further on).

Coordination is key

Coordinating your dress, hat or fascinator, and your other accessories can be challenging, but there is a basic formula you can follow:

• Choose your hat or your dress first - we'll call this your base piece - and then build your outfit from there, depending on what you find first. It really doesn't matter what you start with - as long as it feels great for you to wear.
• When choosing your head piece, go for something that flatters your face shape and your skin tone.
• If your base piece is really bold, textured or patterned then choose something more subtle and understated to go with it, or risk looking overdone.
• Make sure that the colours and tones in your dress, hat and accessories complement each other. Nude shoes and accessories are always a fail safe option, and pair well with all colours. Otherwise, think about adding pops of colours, such as yellow accessories with a blue floral dress, or bright orange paired with hot pink for a strong statement. If your dress is multicoloured, pick up one of the colours and and use this throughout your accessories. 

Be a glowing goddess (not an orange one)

Yes, we all love that sun kissed glow, but skin that is excessively tanned (especially with an orange tinge to it, or obvious visible marks on hands and feet) is an absolute no-no, so go easy on the fake tan. I recommend a professional spray tan so they can match a colour and give you the perfect hue based on your natural skin tone. The overall look should blend well and look natural.

Detail oriented 

Don't skip over the details - this is what completes your look - choose an appropriate nail colour and make sure your hair and makeup complements your outfit. I recommend getting a professional to take care of these for you (it will make you feel all that more special and beautiful). Have your dress professionally pressed or dry cleaned prior.

Take a risk

While the races have always been traditionally associated with dresses, what about trying a stylish pant suit or jumpsuit? Even Royal Ascot now allows ladies to wear full length matching trouser suits and jumpsuits, a sign that it's still possible to respect the event with a more fashion forward style.

Rent your perfect outfit

The cost of a dress, shoes, accessories, headwear, hair and makeup can add up pretty quickly, so why not think about renting your outfit instead of buying it all? As well as saving you money, it will also save you wardrobe space. My top picks are Glam Corner and Her Wardrobe

>>If you enjoyed you this and would like to talk more about your personal style, book in for a complimentary clothing consultation and take the first step to feeling more confident in your style than ever before.