Photo: @aleyshacstylist
There are plenty of reasons to get excited about autumn. Crunchy leaves, cozy sweaters, and best of all, autumn racing season. With a slight dip in temperature comes an upswing in racing fever, and a slew of fantastic excuses to upgrade your hat collection.
Of course it’s not just the jockeys who get pre-race nerves. From killer heels you can last all day in to the old Hats vs Fascinators debate, there are a lot of style considerations to take into account. To ensure you stand out for all the right reasons, we grilled stylist Aleysha Campbell (@aleyshacstylist) for her best tricks and tips.
Photo: @aleyshacstylist
What are the most important rules for Autumn Racing Season?
Stick to closed toe heels ladies, and classic cuts!
What are the most common style mistakes you see trackside?
Short dresses are a big no no! Less is definitely not more in this case. Think elegant and ladylike when selecting your outfit (and heels).
What trends are you really looking forward to seeing (or trying!) this season?
Working with the key colours that have rocked the runway this season: wines, plums/pinks and metallics…accessorising becomes a bit of fun with this palette. Felt hats too, my go-to!
Photos: Sydney Autumn Racing
Hats or fascinators?
Hats, hands down!
What shoe advice can you offer?
Ladies! Invest in a comfortable pointed shoe, you will find organising outfits a breeze! I’ve just discovered the brand Pink Inc (stocked in Myer) and you need to know about it… in particular, this style.
What are some of your top picks for race-perfect dresses this season?
Seduce Aureus Dress, $189.95; Alex Perry Benecia Beaded French Lace Dress, $1600; By Johnny Olympia Dress, $280; Yeojin Bae Double Crape Hanne Dress, $275; By Johnny Oil Wave Dress, $320
Do you have any favourite styling tricks you’ve picked up over the years?
Party feet and heel shields, trust me. Pop them in your shoes before you head off and you won’t be left feeling sorry for yourself when the day comes to an end.
Another good tip is to focus on one key element and build your outfit up from that. It may be a statement shoe, a beautifully detailed dress, or a stunning headpiece/hat.
What five things should every woman take in her clutch?
Lip gloss or balm, phone, mints, Hollywood tape (if needed) and money.
