06 Oct THE GENTLEMEN’S GUIDE TO DRESSING FOR THE SPRING RACES
Spring is blooming and we have our eyes set on the Melbourne Races as it approaches this November. As the richest handicap race in Australia, the event attracts 315,000 racegoers to Flemington each year and 20million Australians who eagerly watch the screens. It’s a few days of festivity and fun, and an excuse for attendees to frock up and party.
Inspired by the Jack and Jones Suit Collection, we have chosen some staple pieces fit for the Melbourne Cup or Derby, Oaks and Stakes Day.
The dress code:
“Gentlemen are required to wear a suit of tailored slacks (tailored chinos acceptable), sports coat or blazer, plus tie and dress shoes.”
Fabrics
It’s definitely okay to wear synthetic material, but opt for more breathable fabrics like linen, silk, cotton/wool blends for your shirt or suit in the warmer weather.
The Fit
Ric Flair once said, “A guy can have a phenomenal body, but if the suit doesn’t fit him, forget it.”
If there is one thing that kills a suit’s look, it’s an ill fitting one. The blazer should rest on the shoulders and drape well through the rest of the body. The pants should sit comfortably on the waist, generally four fingers below the navel, and they shouldn’t bundle around at the ankle. If you don’t have a tailored suit, bring it to your closest alterations store and get it adjusted.
Colours
Classic colours incorporate classic colours like pale grey, beige, and mid-blue. Don’t be afraid to utilise bolder colours, textures and prints and stand out by theming your outfit with a complimentary pocket square and tie.
Credit: WWD, The Trendspotter, Mansboss
Credit: philippeperzi
Credit: GQMagazine
If you want a pop of colour, incorporate brighter colours and prints. Be bold with yellow, red, stripes, larger checkered suits – the list is endless, and the races is the perfect place to wear interesting textures and tones.
Credit: WWD, D’Marge
Accessorise
Generally speaking, you should theme your accessories together to bring a unified look to your outfit, though you don’t have to have it completely matching (e.g. red pocket square + red tie). Play around with prints and colours and keep jewelry minimalistic to look classy and fun at the same time.
Shoes
Quite possibly the most important element of shoes is to have them well polished. Some nice brown leather and suede shoes will nicely compliment your shoes and provide a nice balance to a bolder outfit.
Credit: The Trend Spotter, Beauty and Style Guide, the Urban List
