As the sun shone brightly over Flemington Racecourse this year, it wasn’t just the horses that turned heads. The Melbourne Cup 2024 saw an electrifying wave of fashion, with the colour red stealing the spotlight amongst the stars attending the Bird Cage. This vibrant hue was a bold choice for many celebrities, who expertly paired tonal headwear and neutral accessories to create looks that were RED hot!
Among the standout looks was Kate Waterhouse, daughter of horse trainer Gai Waterhouse, who channelled the timeless elegance of Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Waterhouse draped a chic headscarf loosely around her head, allowing it to cascade gracefully around her neckline. To complete her vintage-inspired look, she accessorised with some white 1960s cat-eye sunglasses and pointy toe stiletto heels.
The trend didn’t stop there. Corset styles reminiscent of the glamorous 1950s made a triumphant return, hugging curves and celebrating femininity. Ariane Titmus, along with former Miss Universe Olivia Molly Rogers, journalist Samantha Armytage, and Designer & Stylist Lana Wilkinson, all embraced this silhouette, showcasing rounded hip long skirts and peplum styles, that were timeless. Also popular were off-the-shoulder designs that were particularly eye-catching, softening, and romantic.
Hannah Dal Sasso, the former girlfriend of Thanasi Kokkinakis, also joined the red alert ranks, after all the Melbourne Cup is all about being playful and fun in our colour choices, and this rich, passionate hue was reminiscent of that.
Celebrity stylist Donny Galella said, “the Melbourne Cup is all about colour, it’s Spring, it’s a celebration of fashion. I love outfits that are completed from head to toe, the detailing from the hat to the bag, to the shoes and even gloves. I love suits and the combination of the two-piece sets; this is a big trend we are currently seeing.
Donny says, “don’t come in dark drab colours, save those for Autumn, this is Spring, and don’t attend without anything on your head. I think you need something; it is Spring Racing.“
Accessorising was key, with many opting for neutral tones to balance the boldness of the red attire. From elegant clutches to minimalist jewellery, these choices allowed the vibrant outfits to take centre stage.
By Melinda Sullivan.
Photography by Toby Sullivan @Justpose_
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