Barring any last-minute emergencies, fashion will be back on the track at Flemington for the Melbourne Cup on November 2.
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And for the first time since Fashions on the Field assaulted the senses on Cup Day 1962, there will be two parts to keep an eye on.
The COVID-induced online Myer Fashions on Your Front Lawn - where contestants post photos from home for judging - has become an integral part of the day's colour after its great success last year.
Nothing fussy
"Embrace all that you love about fashion, celebrate the joy of dressing up and get ready to show off your own creativity," Myer says.
There is much to learn from last year's winners for anyone intending to dress up for the event, whether at home, on track or at one of the many functions around Australia.
Men's winner, Darwin nurse Sherlon Garbo, used what was already in his wardrobe - a Zara suit and loads of accoutrements.
"I have a wardrobe of old clothes which I mixed and matched to come up with my racewear outfit," he said at the time.
Christine Spielmann, also from Darwin, won the women's prize with a striking purple pantsuit of her own design and making.
This year, she is a judge, alongside a long list of celebrities from the fashion, media, and design worlds, including Myer ambassador Kris Smith, Victoria Racing Club ambassador, and 2107 winner Crystal Kimber.
Judges will be looking for "balance" among the parade of hopefuls. One of the judges, Kate Waterhouse, says the type of dress you decide on should determine the accessories - the showier the dress, the more subdued the extras.
"I didn't want anything fussy that was going to compete with the dress," she said of her statement-making outfit from last year.
The fashion experts all agree Melbourne Cup Day has always been about pushing the style boundaries and having fun.
And it is a Spring Carnival, so bright colours and florals are the order of the day. That's not to say there isn't room for the classic monotone - above all, for elegance.
That brings us to the all-important finishing touches.
This goes with what?
- Hats and fascinators. Think threes - a base, feather (or flowers) and netting.
- Bags. Something substantial or a more comfortable shoulder clutch or purse?
- Shoes. Many suffer for their art, but should you? The other worry is should they match your hat and bag. (No, the tone of the combination is important).
- Sunglasses. Set a smile on your face.
Joe Scavo
I am journalist living in North-West Tasmania, having worked more than 30 years in Australian print and television media. I also have been a teacher of English to speakers of other languages, a university lecturer in journalism, a Government Media Advisor and a Corporate Communications Advisor.
I am journalist living in North-West Tasmania, having worked more than 30 years in Australian print and television media. I also have been a teacher of English to speakers of other languages, a university lecturer in journalism, a Government Media Advisor and a Corporate Communications Advisor.
