Fashions on the Field
Featuring over $10,000 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 - $ 400 cash / $ 600 prize / $ 450 View Brisbane Hotel Accommodation package
2nd Place - $ 150 cash / $ 450 prize
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 - $ 400 cash / $ 600 prize / $ 450 View Brisbane Hotel Accommodation package
2nd Place - $ 150 cash / $ 450 prize
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 - $ 400 cash / $ 250 prizes / $ 750 View Brisbane Hotel Accommodation package
2nd Place - $ 150 cash / $ 250 prizes
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 - $ 400 cash / $ 500 prizes / $450 View Brisbane Hotel Accommodation package
2nd Place - $ 500prizes / $ 450 View Brisbane Hotel Accommodation package
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 - $ 400 cash / $ 550 prize / $ 450 View Brisbane Hotel Accommodation package
2nd Place - $ 150 cash / $ 320 prize
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 and do not reside in Dalby.
- The judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
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