Fashions on the Field
Featuring over $6,000 in cash and prizes.
View the information sheet for everything you need to know on the day
Introduction
Fashion on the Field competitions are a popular part of local race meetings, and are an excellent way of showcasing a race goer’s style and flair. While entering Fashions of the Field is becoming increasingly popular with race goers, there are a few guidelines generally followed by judges that contenders should take into account when composing their outfit.
The key to a successful outfit is appropriateness; it must fall squarely in the category of race wear as well as suiting the season. Given that Autumn weather can be unpredictable it is a good idea to include some options that enable you to adjust your outfit slightly to suit the weather on the day. A layered outfit will facilitate this, while also ensuring you are comfortable if the temperature varies with the time of day.
The term “race wear” incorporates classic, elegant styles – avoid anything tight, revealing, strapless or midriff baring. Do however consider trouser or a jumpsuit, but the same rules apply for length – not shorts. Also keep in mind that races are a daytime event, so be wary of material and shapes that spell – out evening, like sequins or high shine materials.
The great thing about Autumn race day styling is that the overall experience is a lot calmer and there seems to be a lot less pressure than in the peak fashion season of spring carnivals. This allows you to be a little more expressive and experimental with your look. So go on, get set and make your mark!
General Hints
- When selecting the style of your outfit, check for an appropriate length, not more than a few inches above the knee, in the current season the outfit should also have covered shoulders. Layering options for Autumn include a full or three quarter sleeve jacket or bolero.
- In order to successfully coordinate your outfit it is best to start with a colour theme, this will ensure that your hat, bag, headpiece and other accessories complement each other.
- Popular winning Autumn colour schemes include black and white, grey with a brighter colour, darker pastel tones with cream. All black is generally considered too somber for the race wear category.
- A hat or headwear should always be worn by women entering Fashions of the Field. Autumn options include pillbox styles, fascinators and berets, headwear does not need to be a huge statement piece, it should be tasteful and coordinate with your colour scheme.
- Shoes should have a closed toe, and be worn with stockings or tights. Your bag or clutch should again not be oversized, both size and colour should complement rather than obscure your outfit. Leather or fabric gloves are appropriate for Autumn.
- Jewelry should be chosen to balance your outfit, rather than overpower it. Small stud style earrings are considered the best choice when wearing a hat or headpiece.
- Grooming is essential, hair should be clean and styled to complement your head wear, bearing in mind it can be more difficult to fix a fascinator in freshly washed hair. The best way to ensure that your hair works with your outfit is to have your hairdresser style your hair and fit your headpiece.
- Make up should be suitable for day, it is best to avoid very dark lipsticks and heavy eye make up.
How to Enter
A team of Fashions on the Field spotters will wander through the crowd selecting suitably dressed entrants for each category or you can self-register at the Fashions tent from 12:30pm - 1:15pm.
You will be issued with a registration number and tag that must be displayed at all times until the winners of each category have been announced. The assembly point to meet at, prior to judging of each category, is at the staging area in front of the general admission - stage near racetrack.
Categories
Best Dressed Classic Lady
- Timeless style and originality, with a clear comprehension of the interpretation of race wear.
- Outfit should be appropriate for the season and the weather on the day.
- It should include suitable shoes and coordinated accessories.
- Head wear is essential.
1st Place - $800 cash
2nd Place - $400 cash
Best Dressed Contemporary Lady
- An original outfit demonstrating a stylish interpretation of current trends in fashion.
- Outfit should be appropriate for the season and the weather on the day.
- It should include attention to detail in accessories.
- Head wear is essential and should be of a contemporary design to complement the outfit.
1st Place - $800 cash
2nd Place - $400 cash
Best Dressed Gentleman
- Should display an understanding of male race wear with appropriateness for the season and weather on the day.
- The outfit should be individualised with accessories such as a hat, lapel flower, cufflinks or pocket handkerchief.
- Jackets, waistcoats and ties in line with current fashion trends are encouraged.
1st Place - $800 cash
2nd Place - $400 cash
Best Dressed Couple
- Entrants should be individually outstanding and make a coordinated pair.
- Men’s outfits should include a suit or jacket and tie.
- Women’s must include headwear and complementary seasonally suitable accessories.
- Both outfits should reflect current fashion trends and be suitable for the season and the weather on the day.
1st Place - $800 cash
2nd Place - $400 cash
Best Hat/Millinery
- Should make a clear fashion statement yet fully complement the outfit.
- Style and design should demonstrate originality and be appropriate for the season.
- Head wear should be individualised with original detail.
1st Place - $800 cash
2nd Place - $400 cash
Judges
- A panel of suitably qualified judges are selected to judge the Fashions on the Field.
- Judges selected are independently chosen; are not a part of the Dalby Amateur Picnic Race Club.
- The judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
Meet our 2024 judges!
Kate Kirk
As a regular FOTF sash winner, a racewear designer/creater and a personal stylist, I look for a well styled outfit with close attention to detail. I also love to see FOTF entrants show off their personality and creativity through their outfits.
A comfortable outfit that suits a day at the races and allows you to move, sit, stand and enjoy the day is always a must!
I look forward to seeing everyone's beautiful outfits at this year's Dalby Picnic Races!
Sally Sattler
Dale Olsson
Dale Olsson is a multiple Fashions on the Field winner throughout Australia over many years but now prefers to judge. She particularly enjoys country racing and has judged at Bell, Jandowae, Roma, Warwick, Home Hill & Rockhampton to name a few, as well as Brisbane where she was a member of the BRC Fashion Committee.
She is the former owner of the iconic millinery boutique, The Hat Box, in the Brisbane Arcade and her headwear has been worn by fashionistas, racing royalty and celebrities throughout Australia.
What she will be looking for when judging fashions is a well coordinated outfit with a nod to Autumn even though it may still be hot. So no straw hats, sandals or bare shoulders for the ladies. She would expect the ladies to be well groomed with neat hairstyles. Gentlemen are also expected to wear a hat and matching shoes & belt. The best accessory of all, she believes, is a happy smile and a positive attitude.
Dale hopes to see some amazing creations as she believes country ladies and gents display enormous style and creativity in their fashion choices and she is looking forward to judging at the Dalby Picnic Races once again this year.
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