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PASTEL PLAY

Hats, Heels, and Highlights: Styling Tips for Oaks Day Glam

Written By: Priyanka Bimal

Between the bold statements seen on Melbourne Cup day and the structured elegance of Derby Day, Oaks Day is a delightful middle ground. 

Just a few days after the glamour of the Melbourne Cup, Crown Oaks Day arrives in a playful flourish of colour, keeping the high-energy spirit of the Spring Racing Carnival alive. While the Melbourne Cup commands a formality that is almost ceremonial, Oaks Day offers a lighter approach to dressing up — though the encouragement to showcase your sartorial best remains unwavering. It is a day where pastels, florals, and softer hues dominate the crowd, creating a harmonious contrast to the bold black-and-white motifs of Derby Day or the vibrant yellow rose motifs of the Melbourne Cup day. Here, the official flower is still a rose, albeit in a soothing purple shade, providing a subtle thematic anchor for styling choices.

Between the bold statements seen on Melbourne Cup day and the structured elegance of Derby Day, Oaks Day is a delightful middle ground. Floral prints, delicate pastels, and playful accessories reign supreme, yet there’s still room for those daring, head-to-toe looks that stop passersby in their tracks. The energy of the event, coupled with the mildness of its dress code, allows racegoers to experiment creatively — pairing statement hats with flowing dresses, metallic accessories, and the perfect heel to navigate a day of glamour and sunshine. In essence, Oaks Day encourages a celebration of individuality and feminine style, wrapped in the joyful spirit of Spring Racing.

Wide Banner

No Oaks Day ensemble is complete without a hat — and fascinators remain the quintessential accessory. On a day where soft hues dominate, the choice of neutral or pastel shades allows you to make a statement. A blush pink, lavender, or cream fascinator works beautifully with floral dresses, offering a structured yet whimsical focal point.

Placement and scale matter: a smaller, delicately beaded fascinator is ideal for intimate brunches or casual trackside viewing, while a larger sculptural piece elevates your presence at the Flemington races.

A lemon yellow dress from Givenchy captures the mood of Oaks Day effortlessly. Bright enough to stand out in a sea of pastels yet soft enough to complement the playful tone of the day, it’s a choice that radiates confidence and optimism. Think fluid fabrics that catch the breeze between the stands and a silhouette that flatters every angle — perfect for mingling with friends at Fashions on the Field.

When styling a dress this vibrant, accessories can be understated yet deliberate. Neutral-toned fascinators or pastel shoes allow the dress to remain the focal point, while a minimal clutch adds a polished finish. Consider Gianvito Rossi heels in a complementary nude or blush tone to elongate the legs without overpowering the brightness of the yellow.

If pastels and florals are your go-to, Alice + Olivia offers a range of flowing floral dresses that encapsulate the lighthearted elegance of Oaks Day. Think breezy fabrics, flouncy hemlines, and a palette of soft lilacs, pinks, and mint greens — colours that harmonize with the purple rose theme and the natural beauty of Flemington Racecourse.

Spring-Inspired Style For Oaks Day

While the fascinator crowns your look and heels elevate it, the Jacquemus clutch adds the final flourish. Miniature yet impactful, these clutches in complementary pastel or metallic tones allow for practicality without compromising style. Whether you’re carrying lipstick, a compact, or essentials for a day on the go, a Jacquemus piece offers versatility and chic appeal.

Oaks Day at Flemington Racecourse Australia is a celebration of colour and individuality. Unlike the strict formality of other Spring Racing events, it encourages playfulness and creativity — making it the perfect opportunity to experiment with pastels, florals, and statement accessories. From the sunshine-ready Givenchy lemon yellow dress to the romantic allure of Alice + Olivia florals, paired with neutral fascinators, Gianvito Rossi heels, and a Jacquemus clutch, your look can transition effortlessly from trackside observation to evening festivities.

The key to Oaks Day style lies in balance. By thoughtfully pairing your dress, accessories, and footwear, you’ll not only participate in a beloved cultural moment but also step confidently into a day of celebration, capturing the spirit of Spring Racing with every stride.

Written By: Priyanka Bimal