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A RACE FOR ALL OCCASIONS From fancy or family-oriented to casual or corporate, what Darwin Cup race day suits your personality?
The horses are joining high heels and hats in preparation for the annual Darwin Cup Carnival, where fashion is a form favourite thanks to the Darwin Waterfront Fashions on the Field series and its impressive prize pool. Each of the eight race days has its own fashion personality. Follow this form guide to fit in. Hot 100 Guineas Day (8 July): A casual and cool day trackside, with a fun op-shop Fashions on the Field competition (not part of the Darwin Waterfront series, but just as coveted). Boater hats, wedge heels, boho-style dressing and headbands are expected to be popular. Chief Minister’s Cup Day (15 July): Cuteness is king as the children’s Fashions on the Field gets underway and a family carnival vibe is felt across the track. Dress your littlies in their best for pony rides, a petting zoo and a jumping castle after they’ve hit the catwalk. Ladies Day (19 July): A rainbow of colour will descend trackside as the first heat of the Fashions on the Field competition takes place. There’s a competition for guests in the Schweppes Pavilion and another for general admission racegoers. Sports star turned fashion heart-throb Kris Smith joins the judging panel. Statement millinery and the NT’s love of bold, bright colours are expected to be the best bet. Derby Day (22 July): Monochrome rules as the trackside catwalk becomes a sea of black and white. Popular looks are expected to be prints and patterns, suiting and pencil skirts with outfits mixing textures. Metric Mile (29 July): Style is saddled with the NT’s best racehorses, and racegoers can lounge in the Pearl Bar (open every race day) and enjoy live music in-between backing winners. Corporate Park Race Day (2 August): Corporate chic hits the track as business moves from the boardroom to the betting ring. Palmerston Sprint Day (5 August): The final ladies Fashions on the Field competition before cup day is held, and racegoers warm up for the evening’s Cup Eve Ball and Darwin Cup Day. Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Day (7 August): Thousands descend on Fannie Bay and fashion is front and centre. There’s a trifecta of ladies under 40 years, ladies over 40 years and men’s fashion categories, followed by the grand finale of the Darwin Waterfront series.