When making a hat for a Fashion comp novice I often get asked for help with all the Ins and Outs of Racing Fashion. It can be tricky for newbies to envision a complete look so I actually have a good selection of clutches and jewellery in the studio to help with the direction of styling an outfit.
How do you choose and accessorize an outfit …what’s appropriate summer for winter, etc. Fashions on the Field has a number of ‘rules’ which you can follow (or ignore) to your hearts content.
Here is a short breakdown of points many of the successful sash ladies follow:
SUMMER: light fabrics , fresh and summery colour palette, millinery in straw or sinamay, light fabric, leather. Skirt or dress length should not be too short, not completely shoulder free ( one shoulder or off shoulder has been quite popular of late), shoes can be open toed, mini handbag or clutch. Jewellery to complete and complement the outfit. Remember that a race day outfit is for a day event, not a night out clubbing or frolocking in your favourite holiday beachside bar.
Dress for the day and conditions…this means be prepared as much as possible to adapt the outfit in case the weather turns and it’s suddenly very cold or you are dealing with torrential rain. The nicest outfit doesn’t look good if you are shivering with cold or your open sandals are giving you a foot spa.

Anna Campbell and Johanna Neuhauser

Talia Marshall

Talia Marshall

Ascot Dress code

Lisa Tan at Ascot

Elizabeth Charleston

Claudia, Anna and Eleanor Campbell

Claudia Campbell – winner of under 25 at Ellerslie Boxing Day Races 2017

Eleanor Campbell
WINTER: heavier fabrics, slightly darker colour palette, millinery in felt, heavier fabrics, leather. Skirt or dress length never too short – pants or a pantsuit / jumpsuit would also be a great choice. Long sleeves, jacket or cover up as needed for the temperatures. Usually closed toe shoes. Mini handbag or clutch. Gloves and Jewellery to complete and complement the outfit. Again – dress for the day and conditions. Sometimes a pretty umbrella that goes with your outfit can make a great accessory on a rainy day.

Eleanor Campbell

Anna and Eleanor Campbell

Milano Imai

Elizabeth Charleston

Hennesey Gold Cup

Milano Imai and Eleanor Campbell
The fashion savvy will also make sure that hair and makeup are on point and fashion trends are taken into consideration.
If you are on Pinterest you can have a look at my boards for A Day at the Races or Winter Racing for some inspiration . You can also search #tags such as #racingfashion, #fashionsonthefield or #fotf on Instagram .
Hope this helps, remember to first and foremost have fun dressing up and a glamorous day out.
Monika x