Autumn racing is here! Don’t get us wrong, we love Spring racing like everyone else, but there’s something so unique and invigorating about racing in autumn. The weather’s cooler, so you have more opportunities to practice layering. The colours are deeper, warmer. The textures are luxurious and eye-catching. The vibe of the season is alluring.

Got events lined up? There are lots of good ones, and not just in Sydney where they host the Autumn Racing Carnival. Make sure you’re ready. And by that we mean sartorially, of course. Still unsure where to start? These Autumn Racing Carnival headwear style and colour trends may just be the inspiration you’re looking for. 

Colour trends

Dressing up for luck is a big thing in 2026! If you don’t want to take that chance though, perhaps these trending colours — loved not just by stylists but other fashion lovers like yourself — are more up your alley.

Brown

You’ve probably seen this one coming, but it deserves to be on the list. While it is an autumn staple, it’s still an underrated colour in the special occasion sphere. That’s changing though. Selections for dresses and headwear in brown are growing and we’re definitely pleased. Depending on the hue of the piece you’re getting, accessorising it is as fun as sprucing up a black outfit. 

Berry

Berries sound tropical and summery but the right hue of berry is perfect for autumn, actually. Think more like deep raspberry and dark blueberry. They’re akin to delicious gem colours. You can wear them in dresses for a regal look or through accessories for a sophisticated pop of colour.

Orange

Top tip: It’s always great to take a leaf off nature when it comes to style (pun very much intended). Warm foliage and fallen leaves? The colour’s mesmerising to look at but even better to wear. If you’re not sure you can pull off an orange dress, try wearing the colour through headwear. The effect is just as stunning, but the commitment is not as deep.

Cool Blue

Blue for autumn? Don’t say no just yet. Cool blues are perfect for the cool weather. They’re bright but not overly so. They’re chic and, well, cool. Just make sure that instead of summery silhouettes, you opt for longer sleeves. Choose warmer and more luxurious fabrics and materials as well — silk, velvet, wool.

Gold

Go for gold. No, really. It’s perfect for the season, especially for people who aren’t afraid to be the centre of attention. You’re the prize, so dress up like it! Gold is great because it’s alluring and stand-out! The key in keeping your outfit in chic territory is by choosing a classic silhouette. Better yet, opt for gold headwear. Think of it as your personal version of a royal crown.

Pair these with equally gorgeous colours through your outfits. We’ve listed down five of the best colour combinations to rock this season.

Style trends

This season is the perfect time to look at the classics and put your spin to them. We're borrowing from the past but making it modern, making it our own. Here are the top styles to try this season.

Pillbox hats

Thanks, Jackie O! This classic style re-emerged in spring last year, and there’s no slowing down its rise to the top of the trends. We have officially entered the year of the pillbox. Raise your hand if you’re as excited as  we are! It’s just so chic and sophisticated. It’s pretty versatile too. Pair it with a suit or a flowy dress, either would look great! 

Wide-brimmed hats

Autumn is a good season for drama — style drama, at least. The bigger, the better! Wool hats with wide brims are definitely a good idea. Plus points if they come in colours that are perfect for the season. Cowboy hats are just as welcome! They’re sleek but also rugged, it just depends on how you want to style them.

Bows

No, darling, they’re not going anywhere. But this time they’re not the type you tie on your hair. Think oversized, atop your head. Whimsical, fun, gorgeous! They’re not dainty bows, they’re bold bows. You’ll love!