In November, there is nowhere more prestigious to be seen in Melbourne, Australia, than Flemington’s spring racing carnival’s Birdcage marquees. Set out along the race course, they tower over the field allowing for the best possible view of the richest race on earth, The Melbourne Cup, which totals at $6.3 million.

Although the crowds gather to watch the world’s greatest thorough breads fly by, this also happens to be the year’s most important fashion event. Celebrities, bloggers and models gather en mass in prime marquees, hosted by the likes of Mumm Champagne, Lexus, Myer, Lavazza coffee and Emirates, to name a few.

Lavazza styled their marquee to replicate Milan’s Galleria Vittorio, indulging guests in traditional Italian decadence, thanks to Melbourne restaurant CODA’s head chef Adam D’Sylva. Rio Olympic athletes, such as gold medalists Cate & Bronte Campbell, were present as well as homegrown tennis legend, Lleyton Hewitt.

The Myer marquee saw supermodel Jennifer Hawkins and designer Alex Perry mingle with the likes of Australian football players. Meanwhile, the Lexus marquee oozed luxury with Australasia’s best restaurant of the year, Attica, designing the menu. The likes of Kate Waterhouse dressed in Gucci via Net-A-Porter and Australian icon, Rebecca Judd, who wore a white and blue Chanel number were spotted here.

Intricate lace and beaded garments by Asilio were in high demand this year, as well as golden crowns and bold, eye-catching Dolce & Gabbana earnings. Although feminine outfits were certainly present, structured and fitted seemed to be the preferred look this season.

Myer’s Fashion on the Field competition saw carnival ambassador, Stephanie Smith, wearing a one-of-a-kind White Suede piece as she awarded Olivia Moor first place for her winning look. Other standouts, included a navy blue, structured dress with glass fascinator designed by Laura Keogh, as well as an oriental-inspired look by Nicole Angela paired with an Olivia Schwarz headpiece.

Fashion on the Field

Flemington’s newest precinct, The Park, brought some light-hearted fun to the day with a Ferris wheel, L’Oreal touch up bar and delicious food from some of the city’s trendiest restaurants, such as Saigon Sally and Hanoi Hannah.

It’s always fascinating to see what fashion makes it to the races and this year did not disappoint. Flemington puts on a great show for both the fashion elite and those seeking out the best views of the track. As the carnival wraps up, it’s already fun to guess what trends might take flight next year.

FAJO’s Best Dressed