The 2024 Melbourne Cup saw over 90,000 fashion-forward attendees turn up in full force on Tuesday at Flemington Racecourse, with the color red dominating the scene. From scarlet hats to ruby heels, guests showcased various shades of the season’s “it” color, making it the fashion statement of the day.
Red has been a strong trend in 2024, taking over high-fashion runways from top brands like Gucci, Burberry, and Chanel. Many have labeled it the “color of the season.” It was evident at the Melbourne Cup, where women of all body types embraced the hue in a variety of chic styles.
Racing enthusiast Viera Macikova led the red trend, stepping out in a matching scarlet suit, hat, and heart-shaped bag. Model Olivia Molly Rogers, 32, also sported red, wearing a strapless, long-sleeved maxi dress paired with pointed slingback heels and a sleek clutch.
Floral red dresses were especially popular. Australian swimmer Ariarne Titmus looked stunning in a crimson mini dress with delicate ruffles. Melbourne entrepreneur and influencer Hannah Del Sasso wowed in a custom Madoh gown, featuring a corset top and roses across the hip and chest, accessorized with Tony Bianco heels and Temelli Jewelry.
Stylist Lana Wilkinson embraced the trend with a strapless gown adorned with large bows along the waist. Influencer Tayla Broad kept it sleek, pairing her red dress with black accessories, including standout black gloves.
Pink Also Shines
While red stole the spotlight, pink was another color that made a significant impact at the event. Possibly inspired by the upcoming Wicked film, several guests opted for soft pinks as they made their way around the track.
Designer Rebecca Vallance led the way in a radiant pink maxi dress with puffed sleeves and tie-up detailing at the front. DJ Perri Lee looked graceful in a strapless tutu-like frock paired with white heels and minimal jewelry. TV presenter Sylvia Jeffreys, 38, turned heads in a glamorous pink midi dress, complete with puffed sleeves and a buckled belt.
Aussie swimmer Alexa Leary made a statement with a layered ruffle outfit, matched with a feathered bag. These pink looks were a strong second trend of the day, adding a fresh twist to the classic race-day fashion.
Unique Headwear Trends
Headwear at the Melbourne Cup took a creative turn this year. While traditional hats were still present, many guests opted for fun and unique head accessories, including pillbox hats and berets.
Nicky Hilton, sister of Paris Hilton, made an entrance in a yellow strapless dress with a pleated skirt, silver heels, and a pillbox hat. Jessie Murphy followed suit with a red pillbox hat to complement her maroon dress.
TV presenter Jacqueline Felgate and radio host Lauren Phillips both sported berets, showcasing their own stylish take on race-day accessories. Lauren, in particular, stood out by ticking two style boxes at once.
Alternative Headpieces and Hair Accessories
For those looking to skip the traditional hat, several guests embraced creative hair accessories, scarves, and oversized floral headpieces.
Elizabeth Hurley stood out with a floral yellow headpiece that matched her elegant gown. Crystal Kimber opted for an abstract purple headband, while model Kate Waterhouse kept it classy with a bright red headscarf that perfectly matched her dress and lipstick.
Other notable headwear included large bows, although this trend has become increasingly familiar over the past few years. Despite this, they still added a playful touch to the overall style of the event.
In conclusion, the 2024 Melbourne Cup demonstrated a bold approach to race-day fashion, with red and pink emerging as key trends, alongside a fresh take on headwear. The mix of classic styles and innovative accessories ensured that the event was a showcase of both tradition and modern flair.
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