In need of some race day outfit inspo? We have you covered. Shop our collection of spring carnival dresses and create the perfect look.
No matter what spring racing event you’re attending we have a wide range of options available. From party dresses to linen styles and soft suiting, our daytime occasion wear will help you nail the dress code.
For those attending the Caulfield Cup, there isn’t a specific theme other than the regular etiquette of any racing club, however, over the years patrons have favoured bold colour for this event. Try vibrantly coloured suiting for something modern or a midi dress in orange or green and don’t forget a fascinator or headpiece.
Check out our spring races dresses in black and white for Derby Day. This event has a strict black and white dress code that even extends to headwear and accessories. You can wear a mix of both shades or try an all-white or all-black look for a chic, streamlined effect. White tailoring teamed with lacy white headwear is a trending take on this dress code that balances chic and trending seamlessly.
For Melbourne Cup you’ll want races dresses that are bold and striking. Be sure to also check our evening wear dresses collection for more dramatic silhouettes. This day of the Carnival is all about creating a show-stopping look so try bold prints, colour blocking, embellishment or statement one-shoulder designs. Finish your look with heels and a broad-brim hat.
Oaks Day, commonly known as Ladies Day is all about feminine, floaty silhouettes and soft pastels. Explore our spring dresses and embrace floral prints, romantic frills, and all shades of pink. For a more whimsical feel, check out our summer dresses and choose a flowing maxi dress to pair with a vintage inspired boater hat. Pink or pastel blue boucle sets also work well for this event, team with white blouses and bow accessories for a preppy, feminine feel.
Race day dresses for Stakes Day or Family Day can be slightly more relaxed and headwear isn’t necessary. Shop our day dresses or party dresses collections and find a mini or midi dress with puff sleeves to team with natural hued wedges or low block heels. If you would rather wear separates to this event, our linen tailoring is a great choice. Pair tailored, linen shorts with a classic, button-down shirt and matching linen blazer. Perfect that laidback luxe look by styling this outfit with wedges and rattan accessories.
Spring racing dressing can be tricky and so sticking to a colour for each event you’re attending is a great way to keep it simple. For those who aren’t attending the races but celebrating at home or work, we have plenty of more casual options for you.
Try tailored pants and a feminine blouse with a pretty headband for the office or if you’re hosting a spring racing party at home, pick out a breezy sundress and pair it with some jewelled hair accessories.
For women sizes 16-22 we also have a great range of Curve event dresses to choose from. Explore signature Forever New dress styles cut in a flattering way to give you the perfect fit or try our exclusive Curve designs, created with customer feedback in mind.
If you are lucky enough to get tickets to the events where they are held in Melbourne, you will also need to factor in changing weather conditions. Melbourne springtime can bring with it sunny, overcast, or rainy conditions and sometimes all of the aforementioned conditions in one day.
You will need to be prepared to layer your racing look as the weather changes throughout the day and as day turns to night. We have a range of light outerwear, wraps and shawls that can help you stay comfortable while you enjoy the festivities. Our chic trenches are the perfect lightweight layer that can be worn belted, open, or draped around the shoulders.
