Fashion Garments

LADIES, apparently the Melbourne Cup is not all about us.

Yes, there are some horse activities at times throughout the day that we occasionally allow to steal some thunder.

And now, apparently, we are also going to have to keep an eye on our dates, according to Chaps Menswear’s Melinda McLaren

“The boys are in no one’s shadow when it comes to (Melbourne) Cup fashion,” Melinda said.

“The guys we serve are going all out this year and they want fun and flair.”

Hot picks this year include classic black and grey suits with flashback 1970 statement collared shirts.

Those on the wild side have taken a “shine” to the silver suit, accessorised by trilby hat and cufflinks.

A Melbourne Cup fashion stakes winner can be picked up by the discriminating male for less than $300.

“The last week has been pretty crazy, but you know there will still be a line out the front waiting for us to open on Tuesday morning,” Melinda said.

Both Melinda and Fashions on the Field judge Melanie Yandell agree that “his and her” ensembles should be subtle.

“The prominent colour of a woman’s dress or hat or jewellery should actually only be accented in the man’s tie rather than the single coloured tie and (pocket) kerchief,” Melanie said.

This year women cannot go wrong with 1950’s glamour or shades of “coral” and “sea”.

“The skin factor is the mistake women make every year,” The Lily’s Room stylist said.

“In the past I have seen some really beautiful women who just make the mistake of showing too much skin.

“The Cup is upmarket and is about a lady’s poise and sophistication.”

Fashions on the Fields models Amber McColl and Andy Horton, from Faye Rolph Models, also shared their tips for surviving the day.

“Never, never, take your shoes off,” Amber warns.

“If you cannot wear your shoes for the entire day, then do not wear them. You are also better off avoiding the stilettoes that tend to sink into the ground.”

Andy’s appearance next week will be his first official Melbourne Cup experience, but he already knows the fashion flops.

“Pinstripes that are too thick and brightly coloured suits are a disaster.”

Most importantly next Tuesday is also the culmination of months of planning for Sunshine Coast Turf Club chief executive officer Mick Sullivan.

The day’s seven hour race day program, that includes 40 runners in four local races, is expected to attract about 10,000 people.

The Sunshine Coast Melbourne Cup day is an over 18 event and gates open at 9am.

Racing starts with the broadcast of the first Melbourne event at 10am.

Free buses to and from Corbould Park are available at designated bus stops at Noosa, Peregian, Coolum, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba and Kawana.