Winter Racing can be just as flamboyant as summer, if not more so when it comes to the fashion.
A question I get asked all the time is what constitutes as appropriate winter race wear and I can tell you the devil is in the detail! Ideally, you want to start with your outfit – be that a dress or a two-piece combo – and plan your look from there. Heavier fabrics, longer sleeves and hemlines are seasonally appropriate; as are your autumn and winter colours such as classic black, white, grey and red. Add in shades of mustard, burnt orange, teal, plum, burgundy and the ever popular navy to complete the seasonal palette. For an on-trend look, try a tweed or plaid this season and mix it up with your favourite flattering colours.
When it comes to millinery, stick to the Autumn/Winter materials – feathers, leather, felt, and wool are ideal options. If you are having your piece made, go to your milliner with some images of things you like, take your outfit with you so they can match the colour for you, and have a discussion about what would work for you. Always allow plenty of time for them to make your custom piece. If you are buying something ready-made, ensure that you take your outfit with you to the shops, so you can see it all together, and make sure the colours of your headpiece are harmonious with your clothing choices.
Note: Fascinators are for Spring/Summer and look out of place at a race meet during the cooler months.
Remember to tame your mane! Consider your hair and how your millinery will sit with your chosen hair style as well. If you can afford it, a professionally crafted hairstyle always looks more elegant. Keep your makeup simple, flattering your natural face shape, and tie it together with the colours and tone of your outfit. If you want to make sure your makeup looks good in photos, go heavier than normal and add false lashes for a feminine touch.
Attention to detail is the secret to a perfect outfit. Consider how added elements such as broaches, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, stockings, heels and a clutch can change the entire look of an outfit. You may not need all of these, but they should complement your millinery and overall look.
ACCESSORY TIPS: wear stockings for more polish; carry a clutch, not a bag or purse; wear closed toe heels for a more Autumn/Winter look and be sure to wear-them-in beforehand. For the icing on the cake, don a pair of leather gloves, as these add so much glamour to any raceday outfit.
