Welcome to our final instalment of What to Wear to the Races.
So far we’ve covered What to Wear to Derby Day and What to Wear to Melbourne Cup Day.
Today, our focus turns to Oaks Day but, as I’ve said before, outfits for the races can easily be translated to other upcoming social soirees.
So while Oaks Day (aka Ladies’ Day) and is traditionally a day where feminine styling and details are the order of the day, an Oaks Day appropriate dress will be also be ideal for engagements, weddings, lunches and other dressy do’s.
And, this season, Oaks Day is all about pretty pinks, pastels, florals, on trend lace and classic cream. If that sounds like your idea of a good time, I hope you find something you like below.
1. Leaf Detail Headpiece, $69.95 from Seed Heritage; 2. Lily Pleated Dress in Oyster, $299 (but currently 20% off) from Saba; 3. L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lips Extraordinaire 102 Rose Finale, $15.36 from Target; 4. Josie Wedges in Champagne, $149.95 from Style Tread; 5. Beaded Clutch, $69.95 from Seed Heritage.
The hero of this outfit is this sublime dress from Saba. It’s a very similar style to the Country Road one in this post, with it’s tie waist, high neckline, soft pleats and high low hemline.
I’ve tried this dress on and it’s a really beautiful dress to wear, as it drapes instead of clinging. The beautiful oyster colour is sophisticated and refreshing too.
The neckline would suit someone who is smaller busted though, as the soft pleats definitely emphasise the top half.
I’ve completed the outfit by adding some soft, metallic accents including this very ethereal Lord of the Rings/Cate Blanchett head piece that is a lovely finishing touch and a bit of a change from the usual fascinators/hats.
A bold lip keeps things chic and is a nice contrast to the neutrality of the rest of the outfit.
The next dress has Oaks Day written all over it.
1. Maybelline Lipstick in Coral Crush, $16.95 from Target; 2. Eliza Printed One Shoulder Dress, $89.99 from Forever New; 3. Swirl Headband in Magenta, $25 from Target; 4. Yates Orchid Patent, $99.95 from Style Tread; 5. Ombre Effect Clutch, $69.95 from Olga Berg.
This pretty asymmetrical dress is lovely with it’s soft floral pink in one of my favourite summer colour ways – orange and pink.
Hello Hot Summer Night.
It’s on the short side though, particularly the high end of the bottom half, so it’s worth trying it on in store or have a look at it on the model.
I’ve chosen some accessories which pick up the fuchsia in the dress, but you could also pick up the coral, light pink or pair it with a neutral or a soft metallic.
This fabulous Olga Berg clutch (I’m mad for mesh) is just perfect and complements everything that’s going on here. This Hard Clutch in Coral, $39.95 from Portmans would also work but has gold hardware.
A soft coral lip finishes this outfit off perfectly.
And now, onto our last outfit …
1. Molly Feather Flower Fascinator, $39.99 from Forever New; 2. Amalfi Vintage Dress, $180 from Mister Zimi; 3. Freya Fringed Clutch Bag, $29.99 from Forever New; 4. Kiera Block Heels, $175 from Zomp; 5. Clinique Long Last Soft Matte Lipstick, $36.00 from Myer.
Isn’t this Mister Zimi frock a knock out? Perfect for the races with all it’s great colours, it’s also a versatile party frock. It’s drapey, a-line skirt is flattering for pear shapes and a longer option than the frock above.
Man I can’t wait to return to Mister Zimi when I’m back in Bali next week. Next week! I can’t wait.
I digress.
I’ve paired this printed frock with some 70’s inspired accessories which are a big trend this Spring/Summer. I love me a fringed clutch and a tan coloured block heel is always a good idea. I bought a pair a few years ago and they are still on high rotation.
The floral fascinator channels some feminine style without being too OTT and the bright lip works back nicely with the print.
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Are you off to Oaks Day or have another special do coming up? Which of the above dresses/outfits best reflects your style?