Leopard Print Returns to Melbourne Cup Day as Lana Wilkinson Pays Tribute to Lillian Frank
Leopard print made a striking return to the Birdcage at the 2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival, with Lana Wilkinson paying tribute to the late Melbourne socialite and fashion icon Lillian Frank.
I’ve always said leopard print never goes out of fashion. Luxury fashion houses such as Dolce & Gabbana and Roberto Cavalli have kept the iconic print at the forefront, season after season. This Melbourne Cup Day was no exception, with Lana Wilkinson and racing royalty Emma Freedman embracing the look in two very different ways.
A guest of the Don Julio Marquee, Lana turned heads in custom Sonia Cappellazzo couture, featuring a plunging halter neckline, a beautifully defined waist and a voluminous, sculptural midi skirt. A matching headpiece by milliner Melissa Jackson, vintage Saint Laurent jewellery and metallic strappy heels from her own namesake footwear label completed the look. https://www.cappellazzocouture.com/
Speaking about her inspiration, Lana said:
“I remember Lillian Frank being iconic in leopard, and I would never once have done this, but today I thought, Lana, step out of your comfort zone.”
Lillian Frank, who passed away in 2022, remains one of Melbourne’s most celebrated socialites and fashion personalities, remembered for her glamorous presence, signature leopard print and individuality.
Meanwhile, racing royalty Emma Freedman was equally striking in leopard print as a LANDMARK by Lexus guest at the prestigious Birdcage.
Emma opted for a sophisticated Dolce & Gabbana ensemble, featuring a sharply tailored jacket with a structured peplum waist and a coordinating leopard-print pencil skirt. A black pillbox-style hat by Millinery Jill, dark sunglasses, statement earrings, and a structured black handbag completed her look, with Georgia Freedman styling her hair.
Two very different interpretations of leopard print, with Lana embracing sculptural couture at Don Julio and Emma favouring classic Italian tailoring at LANDMARK by Lexus.
For me, leopard print has never been a passing trend. It’s a fashion classic that continues to reinvent itself, and this year’s Melbourne Cup was a beautiful reminder of just how timeless it can be.
Written by Melinda Sullivan.
Photography of Lana Wilkinson by Toby Sullivan @Justpose_
Photography of Emma Freedman Instagram.
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