As one of Canberra's most stylish women and a past winner of the prestigious fashions on the field at the Melbourne Cup at Flemington, Sarah Kelly has all the tips you need for looking sensational at the Black Opal Stakes on Sunday.
She will be one of the judges of the fashions on the field, along with Brian Tunks and Nick Risteski, at Thoroughbred Park on what is Canberra's biggest race day.
Sarah says she is always mindful that outfits fit in with the season.
"Autumn brings in earthy tones and we look for outfits that are seasonally appropriate and made of fabrics that incorporate leather, felt, tweed, wool, feathers and fur," she said.
Sarah will be wearing a long silver Camilla and Marc dress with boots from the same designer and a pillbox hat by Canberra milliner Christine Waring. She was wearing one of Christine's hats when she won the 2009 Melbourne Cup fashions on the field and their friendship and fashion collaborations have continued.
Sarah says she likes looks to current runway collections. But a winning outfit is more than just following the trends.
"We look for entrants that have managed to also bring in elements of what is currently on trend coupled with their own individual style and coordination," she said.
"Coordination is key and thought to the entire look is paramount, with special consideration for fabulous headwear. This is what race day is all about - the opportunity to wear a fabulous head piece that completes a beautiful look and really makes a statement. Appropriate fabric for headpieces is paramount for this race day. No straw please."
Sarah said headwear that was popular at the moment included berets, structured turban styles and pillboxes.
"As we all know, styles in fashion are cyclical and timeless looks reappear years and generations later. We often reflect and rely upon classic and timeless looks from different eras - the pillbox being case in point," she said.
Sarah says "the length of race wear continues to stay mid calf".
"However, the line is becoming more structured as skirts and dresses are more fitted rather than the full flouncy skirts present in race days in 2019. This current look also lends itself to elegance and sophistication that is a look always welcomed on race day," she said.
"Pant suits have been creeping in for some time and although they can also look elegant, it is a choice more for comfort I believe and moves away from classic race wear."
Sunday's weather is forecast to be a top of 21 degrees with 20 per cent of rain.
"I would think that umbrellas will be incorporated into an outfit - especially for the gentlemen," Sarah said. "I would imagine we will see more dark blue suits with an eye for detail for the gentleman , head wear (not compulsory) and perfect grooming, coordinated shirt and tie - not too many clashing looks and appropriate shoes, And definitely no sunglasses."
Registrations for Fashions on the Field are open from 12pm on Sunday. Prizes include travel vouchers and even a share in a racehorse. Gates open at Thoroughbred Park at 11.30am.
