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A sensible approach for racegoers reading weather forecasts for the Melbourne Cup would be to dress for rain. Denial is the preferred option.
Confronted with the possibility that Cup Day clouds at Flemington Racecourse may runneth over, entrants in this year’s Fashions on the Field competition, and leading designers, have no plans to cancel spray-tan appointments, hang up crop tops or push miniskirts to the max.
“I’m just going to throw a coat over my shoulders and grin and bear it,” says Emma Scodellaro, winner of last year’s Fashions on the Field. “I spend all year planning my outfits. I’m not going to change it just for some Melbourne weather. My outfit is very spring.”
Stylish when wet: Models Mirabai Clark in Alemais and Millinery Jill, and Jay Coolahan wearing Couture Menswear.Credit: Simon Schluter
Finalist in this year’s best-dressed category Layce Vocale also prefers the grin, bear it and wear it approach.
“We always have four seasons in one day, so you just have to pick one and commit,” says Vocale. “Just watch out for slippery surfaces in heels. I prefer to stomp slowly when it’s wet.”
Vocale’s only concession to the elements is a clear poncho, so that passers-by and competition judges can assess her outfit.
“I’m not talking about the cheap, flimsy ones. There are stiff ponchos that will last the entire day.”
Melbourne designer Sonia Cappellazzo, who dressed Princess Diana’s nieces Lady Amelia and Lady Eliza Spencer for the Melbourne Cup Carnival in 2023, remains unconvinced by ponchos.
“Perhaps if it’s a boucle Chanel poncho,” Cappellazzo says. “Otherwise I’m umbrella over poncho.
“I recommend you add a piece to your original design, like an elaborate shawl. You’ve already invested in a look. Invest in a bit more. To whip up a shawl or shrug would save a meltdown.
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“You can also throw an oversized trench coat over the whole thing. Commit to the drama.”
Away from the racetrack, cases of denial are diminishing, with dress rental platform The Volte reporting a late surge in searches for more weather-appropriate options this week.
“Our data shows borrowers shifting away from strapless silhouettes to dresses with sleeves,” says Kellie Hush, co-founder of The Volte. “Hemlines are still trending mini and midi but customers are choosing options that feel a little more practical for the chill.”
“Zimmermann’s signature minidresses with dramatic bell sleeves, and Rebecca Vallance’s floral day dresses with sleeves, are proving the most in-demand last-minute picks.”
If the grass is wet, expect heel stoppers to come out in force. The clear plastic strips transform the most expensive pair of Jimmy Choos or Manolo Blahniks into snowshoes to prevent sinking into sodden lawns.
A racegoer resorts to a poncho on Derby Day in 2019.Credit: Getty Images
If you are team umbrella instead of team poncho, look for the clear styles favoured by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
For men, Melbourne tailor Dom Bagnato says the solution is simpler.
“Just find an umbrella that co-ordinates with your suit,” Bagnato says. “If you’re wearing black it should be pretty easy.”
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