Heading trackside this Spring Racing Carnival season? Make sure you’re dressed for the occasion. But you already probably know that! If this is your first time or if you just can’t figure out what to wear — no judgment, we know how confusing it can be!  — we offer guidance. We’ve been in the racewear industry for more than a decade and know the ins and outs of racing fashion like the back of our hands. Here’s everything you need to know so you not only learn and follow the dress codes but also, and more importantly, feel confident while doing so! 

Dress codes for different venues

Prior to thinking about themes or dress codes for specific events, you should look into the venue’s dress code. They tend to be strict about what to wear and what not to wear. We’ve heard of this one time where a person was asked to leave because they were wearing denim. Poor lad! 

Most venues have pages on their websites dedicated to dress codes. You’ll find that most of them have similar guidelines, but there may also be ones that are specific to a venue.

In the past, it was a big no-no to wear cut-outs and low necklines, but these rules have changed in recent years — at least in the general public sections of these venues. There is still strictness about not allowing garments that show belly buttons, bralettes and crop tops, though.

Read Next: Royal Randwick Dress Code and What to Wear to the Sydney Races

Read Next: Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival Dress Code

Dress codes based on events

With the knowledge of what to wear to the venue, you’re better equipped to narrow down your selection for the event you’ll be attending. You may opt to veer away from the theme, but where’s the fun in that? You can always give the theme your own take and wear something that’s still authentic to your personal style (just guided by a colour). Here are the biggest events and their corresponding dress codes.

Melbourne Cup  Day

Starting off with the biggest day of the season, also dubbed “the race that stopped the nation.” With an event this colossal, it’s only right to expect something big, bold and out-there when it comes to style. There are no hard rules for dressing up for Melb Cup, but you have to step a little bit out of your comfort zone and think epic. Think: Head-turning hats, headpieces or bows, bright-coloured dresses, stunning and stand-out silhouettes. Go big or go home is the name of Melb Cup Day’s game.

Derby Day 

Often referred to as the chicest day of the season, Derby Day calls for the strongest of neutrals: black and white. You can go all-white, all-black, a combination of both. It’s the only day where you’re discouraged to wear anything but the prescribed colours. And while we are lovers of everything fun and colourful, we do love the challenge of putting out a show-stopping outfit in Derby Day hues.

Oaks Day and Five Diamonds Ladies Day

Melbourne and Sydney have days dedicated to the ladies — and we love that, to say the least. Before we engage in a discussion about what counts as feminine and if that’s not a feminist thing to do, may we request you to wear the dress that makes you feel the most beautiful and in touch with your femininity? The occasion really calls for it! Pastels and florals are the way to go.

Stakes Day

A little relaxed but still polished — that’s Stakes Day. While you’re not called to break out the biggest and boldest outfit from your wardrobe, the event asks that you show up with your best, most elegant yet fun ensemble. It’s all about celebrating with family and friends! 

Everest Day

Cerulean, sky, baby. Everest Day is all about the different hues of blue. You can go by the Australian Turf Club’s recommendation to wear just a touch of the colour or go all-out, monochromatic. Either way, we know you’ll rock it!

Golden Eagle Day

Much like the prize for the day, the outfit for the event has to have a touch of gold. Whether that’s in the colour of your dress or your accessories, a sprinkling of some auric glow will definitely elevate your ensemble.

The anatomy of a Spring Racing Carnival outfit

Now, what exactly do you wear to the races? Discover the anatomy of a Spring Racing Carnival outfit here — with recommendations from head to toe.

Race day fashion mistakes to avoid

While you need to think about what to wear, it’s also vital to consider what not to. You already know the dress codes based on venue and event, but there are some things you may want to follow so you can avoid feeling less than your best while trackside. Discover them here.