What to wear to the Melbourne Cup and spring racing

Dress codes depend on where your ticket puts you. Members and reserved areas commonly ask for a hat or fascinator and a hemline near or below the knee. Many racecourses also have rules on strapless and very short pieces. The racecourse website lists them by enclosure.

A fitted or A-line dress in a bold colour or a print is the standard. Tailored co-ords and jumpsuits are accepted if they meet the venue rules. Pack a jacket or blazer, because a clear morning can turn cold by the last race.

A hat is not a fascinator. A fascinator sits on a headband or clip, and a hat has a brim. Wear whichever the venue accepts, and try it in a mirror from the side, since it is photographed from every angle.

Grass and gravel eat stilettos. Block heels and wedges survive a full day, and a pair of foldable flats in the clutch saves the walk to the train.

A suit and tie, with leather shoes. In Members, a tie is expected. Add a pocket square or a hat if you want a bit of colour.

Carnival weekends fill early, and a dress you wear for one day is a good candidate for renting. On Ourfit, rentals run for 4 or 8 days and lenders set their own prices. Check the hem length against your enclosure before you request, and have it posted early enough to try the shoes with it.