Racing Fashion

Fashions on the Field at Burdekin Growers

2013-05-18T04:12:00.001-07:00

Sometimes when running around the country filming, photographing and judging 'Fashions on the Field', I question, “What on Earth am I Doing????”

I make so little money that it is not even covering costs, but every now and then I am reminded why. Today was that day. Let's bring it down to facts. Do you know where Burdekin Is? Do you know what they are famous for? Do you realise that they don't care if there is no TAB tote there?

Allot would say, “Who Cares and So what!” I tell you WHAT! This is one of the most fashionable, friendly (yet competative) and impressive race meetings I can remember going to in a very long time.

Yes, almost every week I am at Racing HQ at Flemington and the fashion in HQ is stunning with Generations of owners, trainers and horse industry in the know members, but turning up at Burdekin I know there is something very home grown and beautiful about this Race Meeting and the People who take part.

I am really looking forward to Royal Ascot, but to be a part of a community that cares and genuinely talks to you in the eyes; that matters. Maybe it is just the warm Hospitality of Far North Queensland. I was upset and it did ruin my day that they had free produce to take home and cook up, although having to fly into Melbourne (BBBRRRR) the next day. No fruit over state lines. When I arrived to judge in Cairns a couple of years ago, I immediately purchased property in the region as I loved the people and place so much. This is why I keep asking myself, “Why do I live in Melbourne?”. Ummm, it is not the weather, but wishing to give my children every opportunity to have their dreams come to them and at their disposal.

Sometimes with Country Racing you expect to see some of the usual ladies that enjoy 'Fashions on the Field', but in general I would have to say that today's raceday was graced with beautifully turned out ladies and gentlemen. Even the crowd was like stepping into the past of yesteryear when everyone wore HATS! Did Burdekin know I had a thing for hats? They all looked amazing. The ladies, dressed like ladies, gentlemen cared for appearance.

I cannot rave about this meeting enough. There was a prize pool of over $30,000 and I was so proud to tell the organisers that this was such a professionally run event, with beautifully attired locals.

Thank you all so much,

Some things are worth more than money.

THIS IS WHY I DO WHAT I DO, FOR PEOPLE WHO JUST LOVE TO DRESS WELL.

Racing Fashion on the Field at Burdekin Growers Raceday

Racing Fashion on the Field at Burdekin Growers Raceday

More to come.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Great Gatsby at Harrods

2013-05-16T17:10:00.000-07:00

The lavish entertainment and unmistakable glamour of the ‘Roaring Twenties’ has arrived in our Brompton Road windows this month. Paying tribute to Baz Luhrmann’s adaptation of the F. Scott Fitzgerald novel, The Great Gatsby, in a feast of flamboyant Art Deco and sparkle.

If you're as excited about the Warner Bros upcoming release of The Great Gatsby movie, then 'like' this page or share it with your friends.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Great Gatsby Red Carpet

2013-05-15T17:47:00.000-07:00

Nicole Kidman

Lana Del Rey

Leonardo Di Caprio, Carey Mulligan and Tobey Maguire

Nicole Kidman

Solange Knowles

Carey Mulligan

The Great Gatsby Gang

Joel Edgerton & Baz Luhrman

Cindy Crawford

Julianne Moore

Frida Pinto

Joel & Baz

Leonado

Cara Delevingne

Elizabeth Debicki

Isla Fisher

Images thanks to Sassi Sam

www.racingfashion.com.au

Racing Fashion, Kentucky Derby Style

2013-05-10T01:45:00.002-07:00

Wearing a fabulous outfit at the races is not just for the spectacle of 'Fashions on the Field', it is to embrace feeling fantastic and enjoying a day with friends. What I love to see is when ladies are dressed so well, for no other reason than they CAN!
'Fashions on the Field', has just been started at Kentucky Derby this year after the success of Australia's 50 Years of 'Fashion on the Field' in 2012. When not entering the comptetion, there is no better excuse to purchase a wonderful hat and outfit and feel fantastic.
Have a look at these magnificent ladies from US in there racewear attire almost all wearing 'Hats'. (not fascinators)

Racing Fashion, Kentucky Derby Style

Racing Fashion, Kentucky Derby Style

Thank you to Heidi for these images, courtesy of ELLE. Click Here.

www.racingfashion.com.au

A Veiled Mystery March 2013 Vogue China

2013-05-08T02:07:00.000-07:00

Kendra Spears photographed by Camilla Akrans styled by Ludivine Poiblanc

www.racingfashion.com.au

Met Costume Gala Red Carpet New York, Were is Dame Vivienne, PLEASE!

2013-05-06T20:58:00.000-07:00

I love watching couture and red carpet when there may be a sense of the unpredictable. When I heard that one of my favourite ear's (punk) was used in the same sentence, I was excited.
When I think of punk, and what the meaning of the movement was in the 70s it was semi disturbing, with straight jacket type of wears, safety pins and totally disorganised chaos which evoked emotion.
Red Carpet and Punk in this case was just TOO safe for me. There was nothing really shocking although where is Helen Bohem Carter??? I love her, she dresses for herself and not the couture who is who list.

I do give honourable mentions to SJP, Nicole Richie even Ivanka Trump was stepping out of her comfort zone, but of course they are all styled. I don't want to see your stylist, I want to see what you represent in the world of fashion and how you are being perceived. Take a risk, recycle, upcylce and make people look twice and be semi disturbing for the right reason. You pick your hits and misses. x

Ivanka Trump

Rooney Mara

Kim Kardashian and Kayne West

Emmy Rossum

Nina Dobrev

Gwynyth Paltrow

Elizabeth Banks

Katie Holmes

Jaime King

Ashley Olsen

Uma Thurman

Constance Jablonski

Sarah Jessica Parker & Jennifer Lawrence

Bella Heathcote

Kate Upton

Emma Watson

Gisele Bundchen

Emma Roberts

Miley Cyrus

Dakota Fanning

Taylor Swift

Stacey Keibler

Joan Smalls & Tom Ford

Totally in love with Anne Hathaway's look

Minka Kelly

Hailee Steinfeld

Kerry Washington

Alicia Keys

Solange Knowles

Nikki Minaj

Taylor Swift

Kirsten Dunst

Anja Rubik

Jennifer Morrison

Florence Welch

Nicole Richie

Kim Kardashian and Kayne West

Hilary Rhoda

Maggie Gyllenhaa

Tiger Woods & Lindsey Vonn

Elle Fanning

Amber Heard

Ashley Greene

Blake Lively

Aubrey Plaza

Michelle Williams

Amanda Seyfried

Love Sienna Miller

Julianne Hough

Karolina Kurkova

Miranda Kerr

Ginnifer Goodwin

Heidi Klum

Anna Wintour

Chloë Sevigny

www.racingfashion.com.au

Jessica Alba

Cara Delevingne

Kelly Osborne

Jessica Alba

Kylie Minogue

Love Madonna

Cameron Diaz

Linda Evangalista

JLO

Adore Christina Ricci

Katy Perry

Brooklyn Decker

Kristen Stewart

SJP

Kate Bosworth

Beyonce

Madonna, not scared to step up to Avant Guarde

January Jones

Gwen Stefani

Coco Rocha

Thank you Sassi Sam for these images.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Kentucky Derby, More Hats

2013-05-05T23:31:00.000-07:00

Usually when I am talking about hats, my passion into the making, design and technique are paramount, but really when it all comes down to it, I just love hats. The important thing to remember, no matter how silly or funny we may think something looks, as in someone being crafty with drink cups or fluffy horses. They are respecting 'Wearing of The Hat'. This is what awareness for 'Hats and Millinery' is all about.
I love looking at the amazing creations from Milliners and Hatters all over the world, but really in allot of situations, not everyone can just walk in and purchase an item for one day.
Sometimes when wearing a hat, people will start to compliment you on your head wear, talk about you wearing a hat and what a difference it makes to an outfit. Some people I know, do just wear a hat to work on Friday and they love it and all around them.
When looking at the fun photos, not all will be made by brilliant Milliners or Hatters, but let us smile and embrace that they are standing out for all the right reasons in our eyes.
If we all embrace the love of the craft and all feel it is normal to wear a Hat, we will have allot more Milliners, Hatter, Suppliers in business. It is all a matter of keeping the wheel moving. Next time you step out the door, wear a hat, be it a baseball cap, beanie, beret or Couture, you will feel better in a Hat!

Racing Fashion Features Kentucky Derby

Racing Fashion Features Kentucky Derby

Thank you to Kentucky Derby. com for these images, Click Here for everything Kentucky Derby.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Kentucky Derby Racing Fashion

2013-05-05T20:45:00.000-07:00

Well, lets face it, when it come to Australia Vs US, we know that it is going to be bigger and well they probably think better, and in someways yes, than Australia.
But, OHH MY, The Hats put me to shame with, Texan Style, BIG!
I love it, the brims are big, the flowers are big, and the hats are saying, "Look at me!"
And why not, that is why we love the races, adorned in our Sunday Best for all to admire an feel fabulous.
We are so excited to see these fantastic pictures from Huffington Post for all to enjoy in Australia. By the way, totally in love with the Philip Treacy that we saw in the crowd, enjoy the red carpet Glitterati.
This photo at the tip is definitely the stand out of the day. Love it. x

Racing Fashion Kentucky Derby Style

Add caption

Racing Fashion Kentucky Derby Style

Racing Fashion Kentucky Derby Style

Thank you to Getty Images and Huffington Post, Click Here.

www.racingfashion.com.au

My Favourite Hatty Shoot RIGHT NOW!!!! De Porcellana Hats

2013-04-29T17:19:00.000-07:00

When I am happy, I look at and wear hats, when I am sad, I look at and wear hats, in fact my whole life is about my family, and my extended family, THE HAT!
Even when taking a trip to Prada on Sunday, shelves of amazing beautifully crafted handbags and shoes, and what draws me in. A one of a kind vintage Prada Hat. Currently showcased in Melbourne. Yes it was worth the call to get me in to have a peek and the new Prada collection is AMAZING!

As I was looking through the stunning images of De Porcellana Hats in Argentina and found this wonderful shoot from Vogue Turkey, Enjoy!

Racing Fashion loves Vogue Turkey for De Porcellana Hats

Images are courtesy of Vogue Turkey
De Porcellana Hats, Click Here.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Fashion Icon = Tall, Long Hair, High Heels and Classic Beauty! NOT!

2013-04-17T01:18:00.000-07:00

A real fashion Icon saves her best wears and has the most beautiful distinctive look.

Their face may not launch a campaign, but their fashion prowess CAN!

The more I need real fashion right now, the more I feel that we are living in void right now of the consumer not knowing exactly who they are.

Walking around the shopping centre, I am always down the end of the 'Fresh Food' market and not the fashion end. There is nothing better than having everything cooked from scratch and knowing where your food is coming from.

When I have to go in the fashion sections of the High Street Labels, I am seeing anything that will bring a consumer through the door. Bright colours, with the latest model poses on the mannequins. There is a sense of looking at the exterior of ZARA, with a reminiscent ring of PRADA lighting and straight up and down mannequins with the starch look of an open front with very small place for merchandise as the higher end stores usually have a maximum of about 2 in view of the public. There is always a need for you to think, you have grabbed the last one.

This is very clever marketing strategy so you spend your $ in that store. I see clones of young girls walking in school uniforms after school into Diva and Louvisa of which I do think, a great cheap accessory does immediately bring a classic dress or suit into the current trend. Just make sure the suit or dress is a great fit and fabric.

When I listen to great people in fashion such as the wonderful past 'Anna Piaggi', she was mad about vintage in the 70s. One thing I really miss from my grandmother is not being taught the art of home sewing. More than ever, I am searching for beautiful rich fabrics, that have depth and personality. I am having to search vintage collectors for silks of which I will want designers to make into a creation for Spring Racing Carnival. In Melbourne we do have a few secret locations, but I want to think about individual lace and no more of those horrid prints that are coming in the length to the buyer in the length of the Great Barrier Reef.

Beware now of 'Josh Goot' wannabe prints, that are looking really cheap and body con dresses, that just are not!

This winter, as Melbourne Uniform requires, it is black, black and black, with a jean and ballet flat for me, I know the boat shoes are in, but being dressed down with lengths of hand knitted black yarn drapping like a bridal train, cat eye sunnies, paspaley pearls with a french roll and beanie, somehow looks so much more chic and fashionable than the latest blocked in China designer pants with badly cut blazer with cheap fake red soles heels.

It is like keeping your ingredients real. Go to the butcher for meat, fish monger for fish and market for fresh veggies, designer duds not always from the 'Fresh Food People'.

Anna Piaggi

Anna Piaggi

We Miss you Anna Piaggi,
You always lead the way in dressing to impress, YOURSELF!

www.racingfashion.com.au

Copy CAT! Flattery or a cheap RIP OFF?

2013-04-12T01:35:00.001-07:00

What is a copy and what is inspiration?

Is it flattery or is it a rip off?

These are questions constantly being asked and you only have to google copy and see all the rip of Louis Vuitton and Prada bags to see that you are in good company when you feel like the system has failed.

Recently in the world of Millinery, there has been dispute regarding a hat that has been made and clearly looks like 'inspiration' from an overseas Milliner. There is nothing worse than feeling like that a part of your soul has been taken and your artistic creativity has been compromised.

As we know there is no copyright in Millinery and Dress Design, although in the world of Millinery it is an unwritten law among this group of artists that you do not 'copy' another designers work.

There does come a grey area where Milliners are most of the time using the same fabrics, similar blocks and allot of the mediums come from the same distributor. It is hard with say a generic pillbox with silk flower on top to say that is my design.

One Milliner I do know well, glared at a hat made in a similar design to theirs and remarked “It is meant to be flattery!”.

I guess as soon as someone sees something they like, they think, Yes, I want that, but at what cost?? Racing Fashion although it was a very small community when it started now has an international following and I am proud that I can bring the love of the races, fashion and hats to all. When I was interviewing for extra bloggers and guests for the show, many were just more interested in entering the 'Birdcage' with the excitement of Melbourne Cup Carnival and meeting celebrities rather than looking at hats, horses and people.

I head to the races just about every week feeling fantastic and a fabulous hat, that is what I care about and having a punt or two. Fashion is just a part of the races, we must be mindful of horses, riders (Jockeys and Strappers), trainers and the bigger picture of what the races are. Dare I say, even more than just wearing a HAT!

Be mindful of the charities that sponsor races and Jockey Trust Foundation. We are lucky to have this sport of Kings where we can embrace fashion.

This is OK, because we all have different motivations as why we do things.

My motivations have been going strong and I love what I do, I make no money.

But back to the Hat!

When you are a master in your craft, really anything that anyone else does just looks like a cheap rip off and most of the people will know. I mean how could someone copy Stephen Jones or Philip Treacy, they can have a really good go, but they are not even going to be in the ball park.

In this instance the hats in question have been a focus on facebook. It has been a name and shame incident. I am not saying which party is correct, but the hats were so similar I think that in some instances we do have the right to say 'Hey', this has been done before in remarkable similarity.

In the days of social media, it is very difficult to keep a tab on images and who owns what.

I made a mistake with music a long time ago, approximately 15 years and I learnt my lesson. When you own something, be protected. Sketch the hat, photograph the hat and date it and seal it in an envelope with a postmark. Don't open it, but keep it in a file called, copyright.

In legal dispute the letter shall stay unopened until the point the judge asks for proof of copyright. It will be sealed with the date and thus YOU WIN!!!!

Racing Fashion at Zaidee's Rainbow day, Easter Saturday

Zaidee's Foundation, click here.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Vintage Headdress.

2013-04-08T21:53:00.000-07:00

Myrna Loy in "A Connecticut Yankee", 1931.

Marion Benda

Helena Modjeska

Katherian Kelred as Zuleika in Joseph and his Brethern, Chicago, c. 1914.

May Esther Peterson Thompson (1880-1952) as Delibes in the Opera Lakme, ca. 1910-1915.

Silent actress Jetta Goudal, c. 1920's.

Ruth st Denis in Radha

Vintage risque dancer 01 by MementoMori-stock on deviantART

Early 1900's La Belle Epoch photograph by Reutlinger of Paris of the French artiste D'Alencon, wearing some truly awesome head decorations that include jewellery and artificial flowers.

Barbara Lamarr

Mary Pickford

Lucy Doraine - Silent Movie (1922).

Pauline Starke by Russell Ball

POLA NEGRI

Portrait of Vaudeville starlet Sonia de Calve by Strauss Peyton Studio (benjamin strauss and homer peyton), 1926.

Marie Prevost

French actress, Alexiane.

Portrait of Romanian operatic soprano singer Stella Roman at her début at the Metropolitan Opera House NY, December 12 1941 in Giuseppe Verdi’s "Aida", conductor Paul Breisach

www.racingfashion.com.au

Racing Fashion Aintree Races 2013

2013-04-05T21:52:00.004-07:00

As Racing Fashion heads to Royal Ascot, I am wondering what the trends and fashions are in the UK at the track at present. At Aintree, I don't believe there has been any previous dress code.
There are many different looks here to muse upon, some may take your fancy some may not. In starting to get ready for my Royal Ascot 5 day Racing Marathon dining and drinking with a touch of $ on the GG's, I am trying to work out what the fashion factors were in these ensembles.
Thank you to Aintree 2013 and Rex Features for these images.

Remember the track is not a nightclub.

Racing Fashion Aintree 2013

Racing Fashiont Aintree 2013

Racing Fashion Aintree 2013

Racing Fashiont Aintree 2013

Racing Fashion Aintree 2013

Racing Fashion Aintree 2013

Thank you to Marie Claire For Sharing these images. Click Here

www.racingfashion.com.au

We are all Equal for Equal Love

2013-04-05T01:17:00.000-07:00

Something I find more than disturbing in our day and age is bigotry. There is no need and we have come along way, please don't let us go back.

This past week or two there have been countless amounts of people calling for equality for everyone to have the right to love. Equal Love.

Even Grumpy Cat has come on the Band Wagon, and we all know his usual comments.

This is archaic as when people looked at people from another race or culture and saw them as different. Everyone should have the right to love.

If someone told me I could not love one of my children for some ridiculous reason, where would that leave me. People do not ask to be who they are, they simply are. This is what makes us individual and beautiful.

I had been in tears earlier in the week when one of my dearest friends had been targeted. This has left me tearful and feeling like there is no hope for peace.

North Korea is on the brink with the United States, and people really have time to bother about making someone feel uncomfortable with the person they are. I have been so hurt to find that one of my dearest friends that is so overwhelmingly generous has been a victim.

Words, stares and snide comments are hurtful.

One of my family members who is no longer living was gay.

This was a part of their life that they kept so hidden and secret from the world they were bitter and nasty. This person would try and belittle others to make themselves feel better. This person passed almost 15 years ago. I never knew they were gay, but it made no difference, they were a member of my family. It was toward the end of their life when they were finally seeing the world and people were not so bad. This person died a very unhappy and alone person because they were never allowed to be who they want to be.

I never want anyone to have to live in secrecy and denial ever again.

I chose when I married my husband to be united with our own words on a beach with just a few of my closest friends, there was no ceremony in a church and it was not a disrespect to God, as I believe in my own beliefs.

If people cannot look into each others eyes and declare their love for one another with their closest of family and friends, it is very sad.

Please choose to be a tolerant person that does not take into consideration, age, race, religion. We should all be free to love and give generously of our hearts.

Nameste

© Daiane Conterato By Zee Nunes For Vogue Brazil

2013-03-31T19:49:00.000-07:00

www.racingfashion.com.au

CATWALK QUARREL: Fashion 'double' anger By KATE COUGHLAN

2013-03-24T19:41:00.001-07:00

SHE was stunning in a 1940s-inspired outfit, beating a record number of Fashions on the Field entrants, but Brodie Worrell’s Lady of the Day win didn’t please everyone at Albury Gold Cup on Friday.

Miss Worrell, from McCrae, was also named runner-up in the millinery section.

Some Fashions on the Field entrants who walked away without a sash weren’t impressed.

“If she came runner-up in millinery she’s not even allowed to enter the second time,” Michelle Ross, of Albury, said.

“It does annoy me because the local girls put in lots of effort.”

Sam Hynes, of Albury, said women should not have been allowed to enter both sections.

“She’d already won a prize, give someone else a go,” Miss Hynes said.

But finalist Gudi Gigliotti, of Wodonga, thought it was just a case of sour grapes.

“She looked brilliant,” Ms Gigliotti said.

“She had the best outfit and the best hat so it doesn’t bother me.”

Fashions on the Field co-ordinator Louise Harper said Miss Worrell’s win was within the guidelines.

“If they don’t win in a section they can enter and win in another section, that was confirmed by Myer,” Ms Harper said.

Miss Worrell’s entire outfit was from her mother’s shop on the Mornington Peninsula.

A form-fitting navy dress, fox fur stole, navy and taupe head piece, cream leather gloves and pearl necklace were finished off with a slick of red lipstick.

“I only decided to come a few days ago,” Miss Worrell, 18, said.

“And it’s my first time in fashions so I’m in shock.”

Judge Laura Dundovic praised Miss Worrell’s ladylike look.

“She looks beautiful, I actually saw her when I walked in and she has just got the whole look from head to toe, she’s incredibly well polished.”

Law student Natasha Roberts, 26, took out second place in a cobalt blue and aqua faux fur dress she made herself.

“I found this amazing fur and I thought I’ve got to use it,” she said.

“I wanted to bring in the cobalt blue because it’s quite prominent this season.”

The Canberra woman had made the trip with her mum and sister yesterday morning.

“It was a 6.30am start to get here so it’s quite a long day but well worth it.”

Ashlee Bowman, from Albury, came third in a mustard coloured full-skirted dress, with leather shrug and hand-made hat.

It was the 25-year-old’s first time at the cup.

“I was so amazed at how dressed up everyone got, when I walked in I was like I don’t have a chance, everybody looked amazing,” she said.

Cheryl Kreltszheim, of Wangaratta, entered the millinery section for the first-time win wearing a black, white and red feathered head piece.

“I’m elated, I can’t believe it,” she said.

From Bordermail, click here

www.racingfashion.com.au

Derby Day Fashions on the Field

2013-03-21T19:35:00.000-07:00

Currently we have over 500 photos and more to come from Derby Day, Racing Fashion Australia site is currently having problems sizing the photos to view, so with a little patience we will get there so stay tuned and in the meantime, do not adjust your computer, yes the images are in B&W. x

Racing Fashion Images for Derby Day

Racing Fashion Images for Derby Day

Please note all images are strictly copyright to Racing Fashion Australia Pty Ltd and Steb Fisher Photography and cannot be reproduced without prior written consent from all parties of Racing Fashion Australia Pty Ltd, Steb Fisher Photograph and Flemington VRC

www.racingfashion.com.au

What Makes Racing Fashion a Happy Place?

2013-03-21T18:58:00.000-07:00

Well hats for a start,
But prizes, tick,
Sashes, tick
And an $89 voucher for everyone to have a facial at Melbourne's leading skin & beauty clinic, Mills Street Advanced Skin and Beauty.

Tonight I have been asked to help out in a new part of Fashions and this is to help bring awareness to Hats and Milliners, but also to introduce a new demographic of people wanting to look fabulous while enjoying the world of Equestrian.
I am very proud to have been asked to help and Kim Fletcher will be judging, One of Australia's leading Milliners who is off to Dubai next week for a Millinery Fair for the Dubai Races.

Racing Fashion Australia has taken the prize pool to an extra $2000.

Lonely on a Friday Night, head to Werribee Park Equestrian Centre Tonight!

Racing Fashion Equine Inspired

Thank you Mills Street Advanced Skin and Beauty, Winner, $400 beauty voucher, Runner Up $250 beauty voucher as well as an $89 voucher for all who enter.

Wanting a touch of Luxury, Madam Virtue and Co, given a generous voucher for goods such as YSL, Channel, Dior and so many gorgeous collectible pieces.

Love From Venus Pearl Collection necklace and cuff valued at $500

An opportunity to feel fabulous as well as an original canvas from Award Winning Artist
Anne Tootell to be delivered.

The above are just a pool of prizes Racing Fashion Australia as collected as well as holidays and more.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Smashin FASHION

2013-03-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

In Melbourne at present, we have collections that are being presented down the runway and they are sometimes made in China??? Not a FAN!

This accessories company does a fantastic range, but I do feel that to showcase people should know that allot of the $$$ are being shipped off overseas.

We are living in a society right now, where we are caring. Louis Vuitton, has thought about a change from the iconic logo that made their handbags and luxury goods a household name. In reality no one really wants to be seen wearing $$$$ on their arm etc...

Currently there has been a report that during the economic crisis luxury spending was at an all time high. Not only was this surprising, but according to banks, economists and basically big brother, going into financial files, it was seen that an extremely high percentage were first time luxury purchasers.

As we have seen Neon (Fluro, lets face it) come and go like the 80s, it brings up the question for those old enough to remember are we reliving the 80s yuppie, or 'fake it till you make it'.

There are allot of products out their for consumers and the target demographic is for teens to thirty, the rest we are forgotten about.

But why is this??

Living in the age bracket you tend to head toward fad fashion and in most cases you cannot afford the luxury items. This leads young consumers into high street fashion chains where they are given the lighting and promotion of this brand to be carried away.

When you purchase luxury, you are also paying for the pampering treatment, (Not to mention those hefty adverts in glossy magazines) but now we are seeing allot of vintage and retro.

Where is the best value??

The best current value at present is to invest with local designers, throw your love around a new up and coming designer that you want to see succeed and share what you want and have couture made, you never know you may even become a fashion muse. Take a look at the wonderful Isabella Blow who mused the ever fabulous Philip Treacy and Alexander McQueen and may I add she was not of tender years.

Invest instead of new luxury that is over whelmed with logo, go to a place like Madam Virtue and the quirky boutiques in the dark alleys where they are your best kept secret and stock up on great vintage.

If you know what you are doing you will be able to see the timeless pieces, and if not, ask. See what suits you and find the pieces that are going to be Vintage. Since I had my daughter and son, the amount of Vintage I am collecting for her is amazing, but keeping it on invest purchases.

I know it is amazing to get caught up in fashion heading to the parades and seeing these gorgeous creatures transform out of their school uniform into these statuesque goddesses, but instead of looking at the youth, I prefer to turn my head after the show to who is writing and saying what and why.

Most of all I turn to the pages of knowledge and people who have been there.

Jan Breen Burns, Phoebes Garland (always brilliantly researched) and Jenny Bannister, a few names who come to mind. Three ladies who are fabulous with a definite opinion about fashion.

Channel Zandra Rhodes, Vivienne Westwood, Anna Della Russo, Anna Piagi, Anna Wintour, ladies who have year behind them and when they speak you listen.

One of my favorite ladies at the forefront of Australian Fashion right now is editor of Bazzar Kelli Hush. Kelli was editing the ever loved weekly Grazia, where it was understood that hats were an essential part of dressing and heading to Bazzar Kelli is still keeping a stronghold over hats in Australia's Finest Glossy Magazine next to Vogue.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Hippy Easter

2013-03-17T23:17:00.000-07:00

Do you find Easter a little over commercialised?
Australia, as far as I know is the only country that takes a holiday for Good Friday.
Is Easter all about Chocolate? (according to my daughter, yes)

With the year like a steam train, we have just spent a small fortune on celebrating the Christian way of the Birth of Christ only to see foil wrapped eggs situated on every corner for the last 2 months on shopping centre shelves to now mourn the death of Jesus.

Not only am I worried about the amount of chocolate and sugar that is consumed leaving me with children that are going to have tantrums, possible gorge themselves on this sweet and vomit. I also have the task of trying to explain what Easter is to a 4 year old. I have my own beliefs that I do not stress onto others, but one thing I will do is expose my children to as many faiths as possible and let themselves lead them to their own spirituality. I will be here to help explain, but I find it hard and gruesome to tell the story of Easter about the death of Christ, it is enough to give me nightmares.

I have chosen a festive way of showing new life.

This is from my children's mentor Meron at Melbourne Rudolf Steiner School, showing a different angle.

EASTER

The celebration of festivals are nourishing and strengthening for our lives. Festivals are like a colourful ribbon that weave us together, a birthday, a wedding, the candle in the dark mid-Winter, a favourite song at Christmas. They call us to lift our spirits,,,, to be artistic,,, to seek meaning in the passage of the seasons, the movements of the heavens, these great and mysterious forces that accompany our lives.
You may have already have a strong Easter tradition; you may wish to renew aspects that you love and discard others. You possibly have no relationship with Easter other than Easter Eggs and feel uncomfortable with the whole thing!
It can be helpful to approach this time as an opportunity to contemplate the powerful themes that arise at Easter. Children need not yet hear of the more somber aspects of Easter, for they are so naturally aligned with what is arisen. Their attention can be directed to the heavens, to new life sprouting in wheat, to the empty Easter nest or basket, this is wonderful anticipation of the future! So don't be daunted - begin simply, create the right mood, build a festival, and feel the experience deepen in you all as the years roll by!

What our family is doing, is putting a wheat seeds in a pot and over the week we will see the wheat grow and flourish and eventually die, but on Easter morning we are going to leave Easter Eggs to represent new life. Maybe not as daunting as explaining how someone had to carry a huge cross to the place of his death being booed and strung up to die.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Fashions on the Field South Australia

2013-03-11T22:31:00.000-07:00

Well I think everyone deserves a prize for attending looking wonderful and 38o at the track is very, very hot!
Bridget and Katie from Minc PR did a fantastic job of making sure that all entrants were kept comfortable and everyone was seen, but keeping in mind the heat to make sure the heats (that for sure) ran as quickly as possible.
The key to the day was to look as if you were cool although there was no escaping. There was free water and sunscreen in the pamper lounge which I applaud the SAJC for making this a necessity to make sure competitors and racegoers were kept as comfortable as possible.
I was so happy to see familiar faces from far and wide, Perth, Brisbane and Melbourne, but best on the day was Jennifer Marsh who I spotted earlier in Grey and Orange looking beautifully groomed and appropriate for severe temperatures as well as heading into Spring.
Overall everyone had put in allot of effort and numbers were doubling as fans on stage. Who can blame anyone. Ladies you all looked beautiful, something to keep in mind when entering competitively is to keep lengths to the knee and a modest level, although ladies I understood in this heat you would have been comfortable in swim suits. Millinery and Hats stood out to me, so when I saw a fabulous hat, the outfit was also just as stunning. There are many hat makers and milliners online and I am always happy to suggest to people what will be in their budget and suit their style. The milliners on www.racingfashion.com.au are reputable and will all have something they can post to you. I am happy for people to contact me on private FB in regard to talking about milliners and what will suit. Click Here.

Congratulations to all, the competitors, onlookers, supporters and everyone involved to make it a fantastic day although the heat knocked everyone about. A job well done SAJC. x

Fashions on the Field South Australia

Fashions on the Field South Australia

www.racingfashion.com.au

I love to Recycle, BUT! UUUUMMMMM!!!!

2013-03-08T00:37:00.000-08:00

www.racingfashion.com.au

Beautiful Girls Luncheon at Flemington

2013-03-06T20:43:00.000-08:00

With a detox of all pop culture, I am no longer knowing who celebrities are. Living in Far North Queensland, you get allot of Celebrity tourists, but no one cares. I have not picked up a junk magazine since early November in 2012 and gee the world is allot more interesting knowing what my friends are doing. Although Facebook and Twitter and learning how to stalk on Instagram is my new toy of choice. Of course in between the school runs, and toilet training. HHHmmm, we all know what that is like.
The notoriety of people I know at the track are the usual suspects and Kris Smith, I just had to ask him about this 'No Sock Trend', he said he has 80 pairs just sitting around at home, so I said, throw some my husband's way, he is always complaining he has no socks. (But maybe he is just on Trend???)
Lovely to catch up with Lauren Phillips who is always a delight and immaculately presented, but for most of them, I am most embarrassed to say, I did not know them, BUT! They must be very Important!

The Important People were sitting close to the stage, from MKR, but they really had no idea about what the parade was about, and I don't even think they had been to the races before. That's ok, we will get them onto 'Hard Luck Motty's Tips'.

Gotta Laugh!
I was heading to the 'Important People' table with camera in toe, and they were lipsticking up and getting ready to pose for a shot. I felt a bit awful, but they were not wearing any hats, so I just sorted of said "Hello" and kept moving. I was wanting to stalk my 'Millinery Rock Stars'!
The celebrities that had been photographed like I don't know what, were looking at Kim Fletcher, Serena Lindeman, Melissa Jackson and Lynette Lim like, what show are they from?

It is all paradigms and what is something to someone is not to another, I love food, but I love Hats More! I had such a fabulous day at the Beautiful Girls Luncheon and I adore the ladies at my table. Dagmar Yeaman, looked stunning in her Kimmy Fletcher hat, but what a fantastic event.
The fashions were fantastic, there was something for all shapes and sizes, with Myer and VRC really working the idea of what Fashion at the Races should be. This was a huge success, I loved the catwalk, the food and hats, glamour and a good excuse to put on a fabulous hat, thanks to Mr Luke Song Millinery. Heaps more photos to come on the site, but here is some snaps from the day.

Anna Mott, Racing Fashion wearing Black Rose Couture and Luke Song Millinery

Thank you to Kim, Lauren and Dagmar for posting me this fabulous shot!

Racing Fashion Beautiful Girls Luncheon at Flemington Autumn Carnival

Lynette Lim winner of the Melbourne Cup Carnival Millinery Award 2012

Serena Lindeman Milliner

Melissa Jackson Milliner

Kim Fletcher Milliner

Chris and Carol with Dagmar Centre wearing Kim Fletcher Millinery Art

Racing Fashion Beautiful Girls Luncheon at Flemington Autumn Carnival

Kris Smith

Racing Fashion Beautiful Girls Luncheon at Flemington Autumn Carnival

Kris Smith

Racing Fashion Beautiful Girls Luncheon at Flemington Autumn Carnival

Racing Fashion Beautiful Girls Luncheon at Flemington Autumn Carnival

All Parade Hats and Garments Available at Myer.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Cirque by Zoe Economides Photography

2013-03-05T00:26:00.000-08:00

Zoe Economides Photography

Photographer: Zoe Economides Photography www.zoeeconomides.com
Stylist: Faisal West
MUA: Andrea Micich
Hair: Maria Gullace
Model: Hayley @ London MGT

www.racingfashion.com.au

Winning With Craig Braybrook, and Happy (Very Happy) Snaps from the Lawn

2013-02-28T16:08:00.000-08:00

Craig Braybrook's Winning Fashions on the Field Designer Award 2012

Racing Fashion Fun on the Lawns

Racing Fashion Fun on the Lawns
I know ladies, we have to hold ourselves back from this one!

Racing Fashion Fun on the Lawns

Racing Fashion Fun on the Lawns
Another pose of this beautiful specimen laying in the rubbish, I mean what woman could resist.

Racing Fashion Fun on the Lawns

Another 600 photos plus from designer and fun and frivolity, so stay tuned.

www.racingfashion.com.au

Please note, all images are strictly copyright to Racing Fashion Australia Pty/Ltd and Steb Fisher Photography, none of these images can be reproduced in any manner without prior written consent from all shareholders of Racing Fashion Australia Pty/Ltd, Steb Fisher Photography and VRC/Flemington.