Winter at the races: your need-to-knows

With winter racing in full swing, fashion stylist and Fashion in the Field enthusiast Angela Stone discusses what to wear to a winter race day. 

Earthy tones are in 

If you’re wanting to follow the top trends of the season, look to a warm palette of bronzes, browns, deep oranges and khakis. A rust-coloured jumpsuit with gold heels or an ochre dress with silver heeled mules are guaranteed to turn heads. Pair the look with metallic eye makeup for the ultimate effect.

Prints & patterns

Bright is beautiful! If you feel like making a bolder statement, embrace the dark floral trend. Roses are especially big this season, but flowers of every shape, size and colour are a great choice. If you aren’t a floral fashion fan, let gingham and houndstooth be your friend instead. Slip on a sweet gingham dress with a wide-brimmed hat – you’ll be the talk of the town.

Suit up

A power suit always makes for winning fashion. Look to Kate Middleton for elegant skirt and jacket combinations that prove femininity and flare can go hand-in-hand. Or, turn to the likes of Hollywood beauty Grace Kelly for more traditional inspiration. And don’t fall into the trap of having to wear a skirt or dress – a tailored pair of trousers with the right silk blouse and makeup touches can be truly stunning.

Accessories

What you choose to accompany your race-day outfit can make or break your overall look. Consider what kind of jewellery will best complement things, and make sure you choose a clutch or handbag that adds to the image you’re trying to achieve. If you have to go with just one accessory, however, make it headwear. Fascinators are a staple of racing fashion and both delicate and stylish, but hats are a wonderful alternative. Visit your local milliner or department store for assistance.

Keep it classic

If it’s your first races or you simply aren’t sure what to wear, stick to a more traditional look. You can’t go wrong with black, white or cream tones and classic lines. Structured style is a failsafe option, whether it’s in the form of a strong two-piece suit or a fit-and-flare dress that highlights the silhouette. And the winter runways are full of minimalist styles this year, so don’t shy away from the ‘less is more’ approach.