Quirky accessories, big brims and turbans should be among the on-trend features when the Bendigo Marketplace Fashions on the Field begins.
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Those were the clues emerging from photos at recent spring racing events, with one of tomorrow’s judges saying the bigger the brim, the better.
“This year is also very much about the accessories. People are going for really unique bags and shoes – ones that are a bit quirky or have a real point of difference about them,” Dannielle Downs said.
Entrants would be judged on style and originality, the appropriateness of the outfit for the individual, attention to detail, grooming and deportment as well as understanding an interpretation of current fashion trends.
While it was too early to say how many entrants there would be, Bendigo Jockey Club commercial manager Sue Opie said online enquiries and buzz at other race events, including last week’s Geelong Cup, encouraged her to expect big numbers.
Ms Downs said there were quite a lot of girls entering multiple fashions on the field events throughout the spring racing season.
Prize money was not what drove them to join in.
“I don’t think you can go to these competitions expecting to win, these days,” Ms Downs said.
“I think it’s one of those things where taking home a prize is a bonus.”
Travellers entered fashions on the field for many reasons, Ms Downs said, including the love of a shared passion and networking opportunities.
“It’s a great option for travelling around central Victoria, seeing different races and experiencing different towns. Victoria has some fantastic country race days,” Ms Downs said.
This year would see five categories, including for the first time Elegant Lady of the Day (40+).
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology was predicting cloudy weather with a top of 22 degrees. It recommended sun protection from 9.20am to 4.40pm, with the UV index predicted to reach 9 (very high).