Caulfield Cup 2026 Fashion
The 150th Caulfield Cup delivered a spectacular day of racing, sunshine and fashion, with Melbourne’s social set turning out in style.
With footballers, WAGs, and familiar faces in the crowd, the guest list included Zach and Alexandra Merrett; Nathan Buckley and his new partner, Kate Dickins; Chloe Pink; Darcy and Grace Parish; Melbourne Racing Club ambassador Olivia Molly Rogers; Demi Brereton; and Adele Petropoulos.
Red proved a favourite on the day, while pretty pastels, statement millinery and a return to old-world glamour brought plenty of variety to the fashion stakes.
Kate Dickins made a striking appearance alongside Nathan Buckley in a beautiful scarlet-red midi dress. Featuring delicate straps, a structured neckline and a cinched waist, the dress fell into a flattering A-line skirt. An oversized black bow headpiece, dark sunglasses and pointed black heels gave the look a polished finish.
Alexandra Merrett opted for understated elegance in a dusty rose maxi dress with an asymmetric neckline and soft draping across the bodice. A cream headband, neutral heels and a structured gold clutch completed her beautifully considered ensemble.
Adele Petropoulos took a more daring approach in a striking red floor-length gown featuring sheer panels and layers of dramatic fringe. The movement and texture made this one of the more adventurous looks of the day, while her lilac pillbox hat and matching clutch provided an unexpected contrast.
Elyse Zahra wasn’t afraid to play with colour, stepping out in a vibrant red mini dress with oversized sculptural sleeves. A turquoise wide-brimmed hat, hot-pink heels and a sparkling multicoloured clutch made for a wonderfully bold combination.
A Return to Old-World Glamour
Away from the brighter colours, there was a noticeable return to classic race-day dressing, with soft pastels, elegant silhouettes and beautifully chosen millinery.
Danielle Collis was a standout in a stunning ivory floor-length gown featuring an architectural off-the-shoulder neckline and dramatic sculptural detailing. The fitted silhouette was beautifully complemented by a wide-brimmed cream hat and matching accessories. With a nod to Hollywood’s golden era, Danielle’s look was sophisticated without being overdone.
Demi Brereton brought a little European glamour to Caulfield in a powder-blue strapless midi dress featuring delicate floral textures. A sheer blue scarf wrapped around her head and neck, paired with white cat-eye sunglasses, gave the look a distinctly vintage feel. White heels and a sparkling silver bag completed one of the day’s prettiest ensembles.
Olivia Molly Rogers embraced traditional racewear in a beautiful blush-pink ensemble. A sharply tailored jacket with a fitted waist was paired with a full, flowing tulle midi skirt, while a wide-brimmed hat, pointed heels and a Chanel handbag completed the look. It was feminine, elegant and reminiscent of the beautifully dressed women who once graced the grandstands at Royal Ascot.
The 150th Caulfield Cup offered a wonderful mix of fashion, from bold contemporary designs to the timeless elegance of traditional racewear.
And with the Spring Racing Carnival only just gathering momentum, all eyes will be on the fashion still to come. If Caulfield is any indication, we’re in for a particularly stylish season.
By Melinda Sullivan.
For more information, please visit https://mrc.racing.com/\
