https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Fri, 08 May 2026 21:11:51 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926951 Tue, 07 May 2013 18:56:56 +0000 RoseandJoan 926951@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I had to pop back in today to thank you all for your thoughts and excellent suggestions. I really do appreciate it!<br /><br />MPJ - I am quite thick skinned when it comes to my fashion choices so long as I am not being disrespectful I can ignore the odd glance. I do hate to fuss, if I am tugging and pulling I become a complete pain.<br /><br />Unfrumped - I am also unsure how the look will read, I am hoping to look put together but approachable. Without the sequins I am sure the overall look wold be too dull for such a fun occasion.<br /><br />Parsley - I don't mind thumbing my nose at some traditions, style and acceptable dress is always evolving. I actually started a petition at school for girls to be allowed to wear trousers, we collected over 700 signatures&nbsp;but&nbsp;at the time we&nbsp;failed! <br /><br />Gaylene - your post as always is really insightful, I would really hate to look standoffish.<br /><br />Parsley - that is a thought I would not wish to look uptight. <br /><br />Suz - After mulling over the comments I think you have summed up my concluding thoughts perfectly.<br /><br />Shannon - you are like a confidence shot, thank you.<br /><br />Suz - planning for the weather is a must. In this instance it would probably only affect the choice of topper. It really would be fab to have sunshine.<br /><br />BJ - I love your choice of words so direct and humorous. Flicking the V does appeal (preferably as I collect my winnings)<br /><br />Anna - the feathered mohawk is a piece of art!<br /><br />Inge - thank you for your fashion faith.<br /><br />Rachy -&nbsp;I love the idea that by wearing a hat I will be forgiven any misdemeanors.<br /><br />Ann - DH does have a great selection of hats but they are all too big :-(<br /><br />Sarah - I like your thinking, if I had them to hand I would wear flat black and white oxfords and feel great striding around the venue.<br /><br />Alicat - red lipstick is a distinct possibility.<br /><br />Angie - I will not argue and will head to Dotty P's tomorrow for a look.<br /><br />Vicki - playing inside and outside of the box sounds like a plan of action.<br /><br />Lyre - you fascinate me, you don't post often but when you do that are the most amazingly informative posts which are perfectly illustrated. you have given me the boost to wear the trousers and to find a suitable head piece. Thank you.<br /><br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926798 Tue, 07 May 2013 14:07:58 +0000 Transcona Shannon 926798@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Love the fascinator you linked to Julie - it is classy but fun and not over the top. Like Angie, I say wear your original outfit (which I love), pop on that fab head candy, add a fantastic clutch, a swipe of red lipstick and show them how it's done https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926756 Tue, 07 May 2013 12:13:40 +0000 Lyrebirdgully 926756@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi Rose and Joan, </p> <p>I think you will look really classy and interesting in pants. &nbsp;The outfit you posted will fit right in. Many racegoers don’t realise that racewear is supposed to look distinctly different from evening wear. Racewear stems from a different tradition, that of formal daywear, not formal evening wear. So for racewear, &nbsp;a little more skin coverage is expected &nbsp;than for a night-time event -- e.g. little or no cleavage, no strapless styles, skirt not ultra mini - in short, racewear should not look the same as a clubbing look. Pants will definitely fulfill these requirements.</p> <p>&nbsp;In fact pants always seem to be part of the fashion offering by the big stores catering for racedays, at least in Australia, for any race where frocks are not explicitly requested. &nbsp;&nbsp;What would really “flout the environmental norm” would be not putting anything at all on your head! Here’s what the fashion pages in the newspapers have had to say about pants over the last few years. &nbsp;</p> <p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/stride-out-in-pants-this-racing-season-20120903-259zk.html">http://www.theage.com.au/victo.....259zk.html</a></p> <p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.vogue.com.au/blogs/spy+style/spring+racing+five+reasons+to+wear+pants,20101">http://www.vogue.com.au/blogs/.....ants,20101</a></p> <p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://fashionsearchonline.com/whattowearformelbournecup/">http://fashionsearchonline.com.....bournecup/</a></p> <p>Model and David Jones’ department store “ambassador” Megan Gale</p> <p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.themarketlane.com/xcms_entry.php?xcmsentryid=17">http://www.themarketlane.com/x.....entryid=17</a></p> <p>2013’s offering – scroll down for pics of pants and tuxedos.</p> <p><a rel="nofollow" href="http://blog.davidjones.com.au/Fashion/2012/03/Womenswear-Runway-Highlights--Autumn-Winter-Racewear-Launch">http://blog.davidjones.com.au/.....ear-Launch</a></p> <p>&nbsp;The black and white photos below are from race days in the seventies and eighties in Melbourne.The black jumpsuit (last pic) worn by&nbsp;Samantha Harris&nbsp;is from 2012.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926484 Mon, 06 May 2013 23:51:29 +0000 Vicki 926484@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I love your chic black outfit you posted at the beginning. &nbsp;Topping that with the little black fascinator will set you apart and yet you're playing inside and outside the box. &nbsp;What fun I hope you have! &nbsp;You'll be so beautiful and do post a photo, please. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926474 Mon, 06 May 2013 23:40:37 +0000 rachylou 926474@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ What Angie says!<br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926453 Mon, 06 May 2013 23:20:05 +0000 Angie 926453@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thumbs up on the fascinator you linked to. Go for the original trouser outfit, add a clutch and you are good to go. <br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926435 Mon, 06 May 2013 22:54:05 +0000 Anonymous 926435@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I like the fascinator you linked to. &nbsp;How about some red lipstick too? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926398 Mon, 06 May 2013 21:51:14 +0000 RoseandJoan 926398@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Not at all unfrumped, it is a valid point. Black and white is graphic and does not automatically read as spring/summer or country in feel. Perhaps if I changed the shirt for a gauzy whit blouse it would soften the effect more, I have this blouse from Next <a href="http://www.next.co.uk/g3898s6#762369g38" rel="nofollow">http://www.next.co.uk/g3898s6#762369g38</a><br /><br />I do actually have a couple of dresses in my wardrobe which would be more conventional but they are old and have lost their some of their lustre. Although I would look the part I would not feel as though I had made an effort. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926393 Mon, 06 May 2013 21:46:17 +0000 Sarah S 926393@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Just want/need to add my two cents worth. </p> <p>There can be something really funky and fab about male-ish outfits with girlie touches in an environment that is foofie and feminine. I'm wondering if I was in your place whether I would actually prefer to stand out from the crowd and go slightly 'man' with my look then play with it by adding the head wear and heels or bag. I think I would. </p> <p>My ambition is to wear a tuxedo to something formal so take my thoughts with a grain of salt! At the end of the day, I'm all about comfort, and by that I mean, I like to look like 'me' not like everyone else. Sometimes there is comfort in going against the flow. Take it as you will. </p> <p>What a great dilemma! xx </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926385 Mon, 06 May 2013 21:30:24 +0000 unfrumped 926385@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I was thinking more along the lines of looking summery and festive. Summery color seems to do that more for me, but I'm sure there are graphic B&amp;W ways to get the same effect. My lack of B&amp;W know-how and wardrobe is showing. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926377 Mon, 06 May 2013 21:19:59 +0000 RoseandJoan 926377@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ okay, okay I will get a little hair furniture, is something like this a cop&nbsp;out<br />&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dorothyperkins.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=1&amp;viewAllFlag=&amp;catalogId=33053&amp;storeId=12552&amp;productId=9602647&amp;langId=-1&amp;sort_field=Relevance&amp;categoryId=208724&amp;parent_categoryId=208607&amp;pageSize=20&amp;refinements=category~[212419|208724]&amp;noOfRefinements=1" rel="nofollow">http://www.dorothyperkins.com/.....=&#038;cat</a>&nbsp;I am getting a go big or go home vibe from my dear fabbers. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926330 Mon, 06 May 2013 20:37:11 +0000 Rambling Ann 926330@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ A spring-colored&nbsp;scarf would be classy and soften the look a bit. Or push the menswear direction and wear a fedora.<br /><br />I want to see Anna's mohawk headress. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926285 Mon, 06 May 2013 19:47:20 +0000 rachylou 926285@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I vote for the fascinator as well. If you've got the hat, I think you can justify the trousers.<br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926277 Mon, 06 May 2013 19:38:58 +0000 Inge 926277@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ The trouser outfit you are describing sounds fantastic, Jules: chic and elegant. I like the idea of adding a fascinator into the mix as a small concession to the environmental norm (+ I bet it would look outrageously elegant and fun on you), and then wear your original outfit if you think you'll feel comfortable with getting a few looks (mind you, I'm 100% sure many of those looks would be of the admiring kind). https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926270 Mon, 06 May 2013 19:35:33 +0000 annagybe 926270@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ If it wasn't insanely expensive to ship it I'd lend you my feathered mohawk headdress. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926244 Mon, 06 May 2013 19:18:29 +0000 bj1111 926244@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ i think your proposed trouser outfit would really suit. &nbsp;consider wearing a really outre hat that nominally fits the dress code but wear it ironically. &nbsp;would this be too much *wink,wink, know what i mean*?<br /><br />otherwise, fascinator as a nod to the occasion, trews as a V to it. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926154 Mon, 06 May 2013 17:45:36 +0000 Suz 926154@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think if you fit in with your group of friends -- and the weather -- then that is good enough. I was actually thinking that the weather would likely be different from last year and that trousers would be perfect for an overcast day.&nbsp;<br /><br />What about two possible outfits. One for overcast/ cool and one for hot and sunny? I always have to plan this way, pretty much, for any outdoor event.&nbsp; https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926152 Mon, 06 May 2013 17:44:48 +0000 Transcona Shannon 926152@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Although I can see the points made about fitting the theme of the event, I also think you want to be comfortable at something like this and if you honestly will fidget and fuss in a dress, then don't wear one. You will look stunning and appropriate and if others in your group aren't wearing dresses, all the better.<br /><br />I must admit though I do like the idea of a small and tasteful fascinator. With your stunning good looks Julie, it would just be the icing on the cake...just saying... https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926142 Mon, 06 May 2013 17:40:23 +0000 RoseandJoan 926142@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Wow, frank and honest responses. I am going to mull them over some more before responding.<br /><br />I just wanted to add that for the 2012 event we experienced a freakish heatwave, the weather is likely to be overcast and their is always a chance of rain.<br /><br />The group of friends range from 30 to 60 year olds who are a complete riot, it is guaranteed I will always be laughing and smiling.<br /><br />One member of the group does not own a dress or a skirt and another is considering wearing a black wide leg jumpsuit similar to this ASOS one <a href="http://www.asos.com/Diesel/Diesel-Wide-Leg-Jumpsuit/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2689949&amp;cid=7618&amp;sh=0&amp;pge=7&amp;pgesize=20&amp;sort=-1&amp;clr=Black" rel="nofollow">http://www.asos.com/Diesel/Die.....h=0&#038;p</a>&nbsp;is it possible to fit in with my smaller group of friends and still be at odds with the unwritten code?&nbsp; https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926103 Mon, 06 May 2013 17:02:43 +0000 Suz 926103@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm with Gaylene in terms of what others are wearing -- they don't look terribly chic (at least in those photos). There's very much a prom feel to the whole thing.&nbsp;<br /><br />But that doesn't mean you can't wear your trousers and white shirt! You will look stunning and I think if you can wear it in a relaxed way and look happy in it, you will be fine. True, you won't look like everyone else.&nbsp;But assuming you're comfortable bucking the norm a little bit, then why not? As long as you don't look stuffy, I think.&nbsp; https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926091 Mon, 06 May 2013 16:44:12 +0000 Parsley 926091@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>From looking at the pictures, I agree with Gaylene: I think it's basically like a costume party, and people have fun in playfully following a theme. If you are too far outside the norm you risk seeming like a wet blanket, unwilling to join in the fun.</p> <p>Why not just loosen up, join the group and have a good time? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926083 Mon, 06 May 2013 16:34:24 +0000 Gaylene 926083@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Unwritten dress codes are a real challenge, especially if you aren't particularly enthusiastic about the look in the first place.<br /><br />After looking through the pics of the previous year, I wouldn't call the look particularly sophisticated, chic, or elegant--too many bum-hugging skirts, exposed flesh, and prom-gone-wild looks for those adjectives, I'd think. What I do see is a very playful, summery, let's-have-fun-getting-dressed-up look.<br /><br />While it's hard to tell without seeing the actual outfit you've planned, I'm wondering if the outfit you've described would have that playful, summery vibe? Is chic and elegant really going to fit in to this scene, or do you need to incorporate something lighter and a bit more fun-loving for this event? In my opinion, it's not so much about changing one element (wearing pants) that might "violate" this dress code, as it is about wearing an outfit that may not reflect the spirit of this particular "let's-get-dressed-up" code.<br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926080 Mon, 06 May 2013 16:30:29 +0000 Parsley 926080@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have to say that I think it would be great fun to go in a day dress and a big hat or a wild fascinator!</p> <p>And in looking at the photos I didn't see ANYBODY wearing trousers. I think you're right about the implicit dress code of day dress and hat.</p> <p>But if you're willing to stand out in the crowd as "not playing along", your proposed outfit sounds very pretty and chic.</p> <p>I really think you'd do better wearing a dress- it wouldn't have to be flamboyant, but then you wouldn't come across as thumbing your nose at tradition. But I guess I'm a conformist at heart.<br /> I think you could easily skip the hat. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926075 Mon, 06 May 2013 16:21:59 +0000 unfrumped 926075@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Love Angie's bedevilment. <br />Ah, the issues of whether to fit in or stand out, and how much.....<br />If for any reason you were to find a fascinator fun and the lesser of evils, it might fit the spirit of the day well, with your planned outfit.<br /><br />What I noticed from the photos was that the ladies are not in very dressy dresses, &nbsp;but that color and prints abound. Black and white are very chic (so you don't&nbsp; have to&nbsp;wear PINK and such) but I'd take a look at&nbsp;how your outfit "reads" and see if the combo of pants--(not sure how the sequins read), "simple shirt", &amp; black &amp; white stand out more than you'd like. &nbsp;Also,&nbsp;it would be an opportunity to add a colorful clutch, if you have one.&nbsp;<br /><br />Wow, the sun exposure! I might be in line for a parasol (think My Fair Lady) instead of a hat or fascinator. https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926067 Mon, 06 May 2013 16:14:27 +0000 Angie 926067@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Love your outfit idea!&nbsp; Sounds gorgeous, understated and chic. But I am casting my vote for the fascinator. Go on. Be a devil :)<br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926062 Mon, 06 May 2013 16:09:08 +0000 Mamapicklejuice 926062@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ha - I would love for an opportunity to wear either a day dress OR a fascinator!<br /><br />My concern for you is that you would feel out of place or apologetic for wearing the black trousers (which look divine, actually), and that would impact your enjoyment of the day.&nbsp; From the pix, it looks like you could easily skip a hat/fascinator.<br /> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/implicit-dress-code---ladies-day-at-the-races---wtw#post-926025 Mon, 06 May 2013 15:11:56 +0000 RoseandJoan 926025@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ In three weeks time a group of friends and I will descend upon the small town of Kelso for Ladies Day at the Races and I am currently&nbsp;pondering the inevitable question of what to wear..&nbsp;<br /> <br />So here is my dilemma, ladies day appears to have an implicit dress code which I desperately do not wish to follow, I would fidget atrociously in a formal hat or fascinator and I'm not really in the mood for a day dress, so with this in mind&nbsp;do you believe&nbsp;I could&nbsp;make the following outfit ladies day appropriate? <br /><br /><b>Matt sequined black trousers + simple white shirt + simple black suede courts with a 2.5" heel + a small box clutch + a simple updo.</b><br /><br />My reasoning is that chic would be my ultimate&nbsp;outfit goal and if pulled off I believe&nbsp;elegance is appropriate for all occasions but my concern is the trousers (pictured) would be so outside of the environmental norm as&nbsp;to look attention seeking or disrespectful.<br /><br />I would greatly appreciate your thoughts on this matter. Dare I flex the fashion muscle or should I conform to the norm?<br /><br />Link 1 - Kelso Races website (no dress code mentioned) <a href="http://www.kelso-races.co.uk/general/whats-on-ladies-day.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.kelso-races.co.uk/g.....s-day.html</a><br /><br />Link 2 - Photographs of last years event <a href="http://photos.andrewsgray.com/ladiesday2012" rel="nofollow">http://photos.andrewsgray.com/ladiesday2012</a>