“I think Derby Day and Oaks Day are when you stick with the rules,but on Cup Day you can bend them,pushing the limits,” a poised Waterhouse said in her defence.
There are plenty of accessories to this fashion crime,which is more of a serial killing in strappy stilettos. Former Miss Universe contestant and mental health advocate Olivia Molly Rogers looked ready for next year’s Brownlow Medal ceremony in an embellished Oglia Loro red dress.
“It was a gown,but we chopped the bottom off,” said Rogers.
Internationally respected British milliner andFashions on the Field judge Stephen Jones defines racewear as an outfit that achieves “balance between the hats,outfit and person”.
“When it’s pouring down with rain and 11am in the morning,you want to avoid wearing a skimpy dress with heels. You need your woolly underwear on and a suit and a coat.”
Performer Delta Goodrem paid attention,wearing thermal underwear beneath her ladylike Dolce&Gabbana floral dress as Melbourne’s weather shifted from blue skies to icy rain. The majority of racegoers facing the elements outside the comfort of the Lexus,Mumm and Penfolds marquees were left covering spring dresses from Aje,Alemais and Supré in fake fur coats and puffer jackets.