My trip to Goondiwindi: and simple racewear tips

Last weekend I was lucky enough to be a guest at the Goondiwindi Picnic Races. I was invited to attend as a judge for the Fashion on the Field event, along with the gorgeous  Cheveux Design and Espresso sisters, Carla and Nadine Thurgate.  I have to be honest I had no idea what to expect and I was somewhat dubious of my capacity to make a decent decision on anything race-related. But in the end it turned out pretty well. Luckily Carla and Nadine are seasoned racegoers and know their stuff when it comes to dressing for the ponies.

I was decked out in an amazing Sacha Drake frock (she designs loads of beautiful racewear) and a stunning human-hair headpiece made by my friend Kelly Stoakes that was originally a catwalk hat worn in a Dogstar show and I had repurposed for the races. My jewellery was by the immensely talented Susan Driver – I wore the Salt Morning Swim Drop Earrings, Salt Reflections Bracelet and the Salt Reflections Ring.

If you are heading off for a bit of giddy-up this Autumn racing season, here’s a few simple racewear Do’s and Don’ts that I learnt from the experts:

• Do choose colour – go with a citrusy or warm palette for Autumn
• Do go for texture – if you’re thinking out of the box, why not wack an Autumn texture on your hat, e.g. leather or felt or a feathery thingo
• Don’t wear sleevelesss – evidently in Autumn it’s more appropriate to wear a sleeve, although in the Gundy warmth a sleeveless dress is pretty ok I reckon
• Don’t follow the trends – aim for elegance and sophistication, but if you do want to choose something ‘on-trend’ pencil skirts, grey, khaki, scuba fabric or fedoras are in right now. Myer has some good tips on Autumn Racewear Trends
• Don’t hold back when it comes to headwear – I personally like headwear that is classic, but if you’re brave then go hard. Veils are awesome as long as they aren’t too widow/funeral chic.
• Do make sure your headwear is comfortable – a hat that is slipping and sliding around could take out a man’s eye. A good plan is to have your hairdresser pin it on securely
• Don’t wear stiletto’s – something with a more solid heel is better if you’re going to be stomping around on turf, wooden is great for Autumn
• Do think about your jewellery – go for statement but make sure your earrings aren’t too much with your headwear
• Don’t lug a large bag – remember you’re not carrying round a goon bladder, you only need a lipstick and some cash. A simple envelope clutch is a good option
• Don’t overdo your makeup – think high tea not high camp
• Do drink champagne – well I am going to tell you that aren’t I!

I had an absolute cracker of a weekend at the gee-gees in Gundy. I met some amazing people and enjoyed a bit of old fashioned country hospitality. If you’d like to see some photos, check out the race day coverage at the Goodiwindi Argus.

And a special shout out must go to the absolutely fabulous, Casey Simpson (pictured below with me and the tractor). This girl is an absolute powerhouse! She is a local school teacher, volunteer for everything and glamour-girl and has been the organiser of fashion on the field at the Goondiwindi Picnic Races for years. She coordinates a group of exceptional volunteer committee members and runs a bloody tight ship. Her event would give the city races a run for their money in terms of glamour, spirit and professionalism. And Casey is absolutely passionate about her town. Cheers Casey, you’re a true Champagne Woman!!!

Are you pro or NO when it comes to the ponies?

Would you throw a bet down? Do you get into racewear fashion?