RAIN may be welcomed by most this week but on cup day it’s enough to send the Border’s fashionistas into a spin.
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Passionate followers of fashion are praying to the weather gods and have their gel-tipped fingers crossed for a fine day.
From hairdressing salons to spray tan booths, the question on everyone’s lips is “what are you wearing?”
It’s a matter of great debate with many women spending weeks planning what to strut on the catwalk and leave a lasting impression — for all the right reasons.
Summer or winter dresses, hats or fascinators, bare legs or coloured pantyhose ... ahh so many things to consider for an appearance at what has become Albury’s social event of the year.
It’s all about frocking up and putting your best foot forward, be it stilettos or gum boots.
As for male entrants, classic suits are the order of the day so leave those monkey outfits in the dress-up box.
Television presenter Lauren Phillips, who will head the judging of Myer Fashions on the Field, advises racegoers to dress appropriately for the weather — be it rain, hail or shine.
So if you are planning to give that strapless and backless number a run — rethink.
Ms Phillips, who loves fashion, said the most important thing about entering fashions on the field is selecting outfits according to the weather.
“If it is really cold nothing looks worse than someone up on stage in a skimpy, strapless dress shivering and looking uncomfortable,” she said.
She also advises girls to not leave applying that fake tan until the last minute.
“I have seen some disasters when it comes to spray tans — even colour dripping off girls when it has rained unexpectedly so it is much better to have it a few days before,” she said.
As for the eternal debate about hats or fascinators, Ms Phillips said there’s plenty of scope for both.
“You should wear whatever suits your face shape and your outfit,” she said.
Ms Phillips, who is a Myer ambassador, will be joined by fellow judges Melbourne fashion blogger Rozalia Russian, Melbourne milliner Brett Morley and Albury’s style expert Alex Falconer.
Border personality Louise Arnold will emcee the fashions on the field.
There will be prizes valued at more than $30,000 up for grabs.
Albury Racing Club’s Myer Fashions on the Field co-ordinator Sarah Crothers said she was always impressed by the effort women go to with many planning months in advance.
“It’s a great day out and naturally everyone wants to look their best,” Ms Crothers said.
“The hard thing about choosing an outfit for the Albury Cup is in between seasons but it’s all about autumn racewear now.
“I would also suggest grabbing a bolero or jacket and of course an umbrella — I think they will be stylish accessories today.”
Ms Crothers says judges will be looking for fashions suited to autumn racing.
WOMEN
— It is all about leather. Add some attitude to your wardrobe with modern lines and buttery-soft leather.
— Winter florals are also in and soft prints make for a romantic mood with pared-back shades and feminine silhouettes.
— Monochrome is also big news, whether in stripes, blocks, chevrons or florals, monochrome adds up to instant chic.
— Playful animal prints and earthy tones are on the style horizon this season for a modern take on the classic safari styles.
— The in colour is red, so add some intensity to your wardrobe with sleek tailoring and luxe silhouettes in this season’s leading shade.
MEN
— Sharp suiting: From the street to the boardroom, summer’s lighter fabrics are out; sleek cool-weather tailoring is in.
— The in colour is shades of blue including playful printed shirts.
MILLINERY
— This season’s new millinery looks are all about texture and lux fabrics, including velvet, lace, metallic and velour.
— Trims include heavier “wintery-feeling” veiling and highlights of metallic materials and trims throughout the range.
— Black and white remains strong this season, which is easy to wear and on-trend with apparel.
— Colours within the hot range are shades of red and cherry with pops of fuschia pink.