Are you all set to start looking for your perfect Melbourne Cup dress? We are here to help you look your best for the 164th running of this historic Australian horse race. The event, which will take place at Melbourne’s Flemington Racecourse, offers a fantastic chance to show off a lovely dress and an elegant fascinator, whether you are attending the horse race in person or celebrating at a lively bar event. The style of clothing at the Melbourne Cup is unique, with an appealing touch that does not always follow traditional fashion standards.
Our complete guide will bring you to the top places where you can find the most stunning Melbourne Cup dresses for 2024, offering an extensive range of prices. Whether you want to visit luxurious stores or affordable outlets, we are here to help you find your perfect dress to make an unforgettable impression on race day. Prepare to look deeper into the latest trends and get essential style guidance to achieve an outstanding Melbourne Cup look.
Melbourne Cup And Its Significance
The Melbourne Cup is a famous horse racing event that is held on the first Tuesday in November each year and is regarded as an important social event in Australia. Starting this year on 5th November, it is a day of thrilling events that attract massive audiences beyond racing lovers. The highlight of the event is a challenging 3,200-metre race that puts both horses and jockeys to the test.
The Melbourne Cup, however, is about a lot more than just the race. It is a day of beloved customs and delights that represents Australia’s rich tapestry of culture. This celebrated event attracts people from diverse backgrounds together to enjoy the Cup celebrations. Since it is a public holiday in Victoria, schools and most companies will be closed, allowing everyone to take part in the celebrations. The event’s venue, Flemington Racecourse, experiences an incredible change into an explosion of colour and excitement.
Visitors dressed up in their best outfits, with fascinators and custom-made suits leading the crowds. Dress parades showcase the most current racing dress trends, providing a vibe of elegance to the show. The atmosphere is nothing short of electric, oozing a blend of eager expectancy, dedication, and enthusiasm. The event is an incredible blend of sporting activities, tradition, and style, providing a day of unlimited fun for all those who visit.
Why Dressing Up Matters For The Melbourne Cup
Dressing up for the Melbourne Cup is not only about looking good; it is an important part of the event’s tradition and enthusiasm. The Melbourne Cup, also known as “the race that stops a nation,” is a big deal in Australia, attracting people from all over to celebrate in style. Wearing stunning outfits, sharp suits, and exclusive fascinators not only contributes to the joyful atmosphere but also honours the event’s long standing tradition and significance.
Fashion during the Melbourne Cup is a key element of what makes the event special, expressing the thrill and significance of the race. In addition, dressing up encourages everyone to show off their unique sense of fashion and creativity, making the entire event even more of a lifetime memory. Whether you are at the racetrack or viewing from a party, putting effort into your dress lets you truly get into the atmosphere of the Melbourne Cup and makes the entire experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Top Places To Buy Melbourne Cup Dresses
From elegant to stylish, these top places can help you find out the right dress for an amazing Melbourne Cup celebration.
1. Myer
Myer is one of the greatest places for purchasing a Melbourne Cup dress, with a variety of clothing from both Australian and foreign designers. Myer, one of Australia’s top fashion companies, makes purchasing clothes easy by allowing you to place an order online and pick it up in-store, guaranteeing you have the ideal dress for the Melbourne Cup. With over 2,400 dresses for you to choose from, there is something for everyone’s taste and style.
Some popular choices include the Cascade Dress in Rose Red, the Sami One Shoulder Midi Dress in Black, the Adaline Wrap Midi Dress in Navy, and the Anastasia Printed Mini Dress in Multi. Myer also offers standard shipping for free on orders over $49, and their Click & Collect service enables quick pick-up at your convenience. Additionally, you can use Afterpay to break down your payment into reasonable instalments. With plenty of options and conveniences, Myer is an excellent choice to find your Melbourne Cup dress.
2. City Chic
City Chic is an excellent choice for Melbourne Cup dresses, with some of the most beautiful options available on the high street. City Chic is well-known as one of Australia’s best plus-size stores, catering to a wide range of interests with its lively and feminine designs, perfect for spring racing. Whether you shop in-store or online, you will find an abundance of stylish choices, such as the Lauryn Midi Dress in Black, the Keyla Print Maxi Dress in Ivory, the Aria Print Long Dress in Olive, and the Flirty Tier Print Maxi Dress in Navy.
City Chic stands out for its dedication to customer service. Enjoy free delivery on orders over $150, ensuring affordability while finding your perfect outfit. With extended sizes readily available online, finding a dress that fits beautifully is effortless. Their Click and Collect option facilitates the purchasing process by allowing you to order online and pick it up at your own convenience. With such advantages, City Chic makes it easy for you to choose a wonderful Melbourne Cup dress that suits your style and guarantees you will feel and look great on race day.
3. Forever New
Forever New is the ideal place to look for a Melbourne Cup dress, as it offers new and stylish outfits that are tailored to feminine tastes. They have an extensive range of options, including classic styles, pastels, and floral patterns, which are perfect for race day costumes. The Constance Stain Maxi Dress, Eleanor Skater Mini Dress, Paula Pleated One-Shoulder Maxi Dress, and Carly Corset Mini Dress are some of their most popular dresses.
Forever New provides a simple and satisfying shopping experience. You can use Afterpay as it allows you to easily manage your payments. Signing up for their email gives you a chance to receive exclusive member rewards as well as updates on their most recent collections. Plus, they provide standard delivery for free on orders over $75, making it simple to shop from the comfort of your own home. Whether you choose timeless elegance or modern styles, Forever New has everything that you require to look great at the Melbourne Cup.
Website: https://www.forevernew.com.au/womens-dresses/race-day-dresses
4. Showpo
Showpo, one of Australia’s biggest online fashion stores, is among the best places to buy Melbourne Cup dresses. They have a wide range of styles at amazing costs, so you will be able to select the perfect race day dress regardless of your style or budget. Anieshaya Midi Dress in White, Cenia Midi Dress, Cincinnati Midi Dress – Off Shoulder Side Split in Pale Blue, Aniesshaya Midi Dress – V Neck Cut Out Lace Dress in Pink, and Marlette Midi Dress – Pleated Open Back Halter Dress in Rust are a few of the most preferred options.
Shopping at Showpo is both convenient and affordable. They offer free delivery on purchases over $50, which makes it easier for you to get your clothes without spending more. Showpo offers a return policy of 30 days and quick delivery options, allowing you to order with confidence and receive your outfit on time. Whether you choose a classic dress or something more modern, Showpo offers everything that you require to stand out at the Melbourne Cup.
Website: https://www.showpo.com/us/dresses/
5. ASOS
ASOS is the perfect spot to find a Melbourne Cup dress, with one of the largest online collections that fits all sizes and budgets. They offer an extensive range of Australian and international brands, guaranteeing there is something for everyone. Explore their stylish selections, such as the Crochet Balloon Sleeve Maxi Dress in Monochrome Stripe, the Pretty Lavish Asymmetric Ruffle Drape Midaxi Dress in Butter Lemon, the ASOS DESIGN Textured Collared Wrap Midi Dress in Brown, and the ASOS DESIGN V Neck Volume Sleeve Mini Dress in Black.
ASOS provides a convenient and cost-effective shopping experience. You can take advantage of Afterpay to quickly handle all of your payments. Enjoy delivery for free on orders over $80, making it more simple to get your clothing delivered without paying additional fees. Plus, ASOS has a 28-day return policy, so you can spend money with confidence knowing that you may return or exchange goods if required. Whether you are looking for a statement item or a classic look, ASOS offers a wide range of collections and services to help you look amazing at the Melbourne Cup.
Website: https://www.asos.com/au/women/
6. Meshki
Meshki is the perfect place for selecting your Melbourne Cup dress, with elegant and feminine styles available at affordable costs. You are going to undoubtedly find a dress here that will truly make your day special. Their beautiful selections include the Molly Off Shoulder Knit Midi Dress in Sky Blue, the Kristina Satin Maxi Dress with Crochet in Pale Pink, the Calder Tweed Midi Dress in Ivory, and the Maria Long Sleeve Buttoned Knit Maxi Dress in Plum.
Meshki additionally offers several excellent benefits to enhance your purchasing experience. Sign up for their newsletter and get $10 off on the initial purchase you make. On orders over $50, they offer free standard delivery, and those over $100 get free faster delivery. If you need your dress immediately, you can choose same-day afternoon, or evening delivery for $14.99. Students can also get discounts through UNiDAYS. Meshki is an excellent option for selecting your perfect Melbourne Cup outfit due to its wide variety of attractive dresses and convenient services.
7. Farfetch
Farfetch is a fantastic shopping network that connects you with the best designer stores and boutiques across the world. You can look at boutiques like Milan or Saint Tropez from the comfort of your own couch. They have stunning outfits for the Melbourne Cup, such as the Atu Body Couture Satin-finish Pleated Maxi Gown, the Oscar de la Renta Floral-embroidered Midi Dress, and the Giambattista Valli Gathered-Detail Flared Maxi Dress.
Farfetch offers several benefits to its customers. Orders above $300 are available for a discounted shipping price, making high-end outfits easier to buy. They also provide a 14-day return policy, allowing you to make purchases without worry. If you want to get your dress soon, Farfetch provides delivery on the same day. Farfetch, with its wide variety of designer clothing and accessible services, is one of the best places to find the right Melbourne Cup dress. Whether you are looking for something classy, modern, or one-of-a-kind, Farfetch has plenty of options to help you stand out on race day.
Website: https://www.farfetch.com/au/shopping/women/dresses-1/items.aspx
What Are The Dress Codes For Race Day?
Understanding the dress codes for race day allows you to present yourself as both appropriate and stylish. For dresses, choose something classy but avoid too short or tight styles. When it comes to heels, both closed and open-toe choices are appropriate, but because you are going to be standing for the majority of the day, choose the most comfortable pair possible.
A fascinator or hat is a wonderful accessory to wear, whether you go for a basic headband or one that is more fancy with lace or flowers. Instead of a regular shoulder bag, consider carrying a clutch. Finally, keep in mind that you have something warm to wear, such as an appropriate coat or a beautiful shawl, so you can remain comfy no matter what the outside temperature is like.
What Is Not Allowed For Race Event Dress?
To stay in line with the dress code during a race event, specific clothing and footwear must be avoided. Avoid wearing sneakers, track shoes, sports shoes, runners, thongs (with straps between the toes), slippers, worn-out footwear, or gumboots. Jeans, leather pants, tracksuits, and untailored trousers are also not permitted. Strapless dresses are not typically worn at such events.
Make sure that your jeans are not tucked into your socks or shoes, and stay away from ripped or torn clothes, even if they are designed to look that way. Midriff-baring dresses are normally avoided, especially if you are in the member’s stand; cover yourself if you wish to stick to the traditional dress code. Casual jackets such as parkas, windbreakers, duffle coats, denim jackets, and casual leather jackets, as well as leggings worn as pants, are also not suitable for the occasion.
Conclusion
When searching for the ideal Melbourne Cup dress for 2024, concentrate on making a lasting impression. This year’s fashion trends are all about bright colours and visually appealing designs. Consider using vibrant shades such as sparkling orange, citrus yellow, hot pink, lime green, and turquoise blue. These vibrant colours are suitable for being worn alone or in combination with colourful designs with geometric and floral patterns.
Ruffles, bows, and one-shoulder dresses are also fashionable, giving a touch of feminine beauty to the way you look. Pantsuits and jumpsuits are an excellent choice for a more trendy and stylish look. They provide an attractive and modern replacement for traditional dresses. Whatever your style, there are plenty of wonderful options available that will make you look and feel great at the Melbourne Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which fashion accessory is a must-have for the Melbourne Cup?
An attractive hat is an absolute must-have accessory for the Melbourne Cup. This could include anything from a stylish fascinator to a more fancy headpiece. A trendy hat or fascinator is necessary for completing your Melbourne Cup clothing, giving it the right finishing touch.
Where can I buy Melbourne Cup dresses online?
Melbourne Cup dresses are available online from many well-known stores. Consider websites like Myer, Forever New, ASOS, Showpo, and Farfetch. These stores provide a wide range of styles, making it more likely to find something to fit your taste. Also, they give you many shipping choices to ensure that your dress arrives on time. Whether you want a classic appearance or something more modern, these online stores give you a lot of options for your Melbourne Cup fashion.
How do I choose the right Melbourne Cup dress for my body type?
To choose the most elegant Melbourne Cup dress for your body type, look for one that highlights your best features while being equally comfortable to wear. A-line dresses can enhance your figure, while wrap dresses can help highlight your waist. Make sure to try on different designs to figure out which one appears to fit best for you.
How much does it cost to go to the Melbourne Cup?
Ticket prices for the Melbourne Cup can vary. General admission tickets usually cost between $60 and $95. By choosing to buy early, you will get a ticket to the 2024 event for $67. Kids under the age of 12 can enter for free, and discounts are provided for children’s and family tickets. This makes the event more accessible for families and allows everyone to enjoy the exciting day.
Can I have a Melbourne Cup dress custom-made?
Yes, it is possible to get a custom-made Melbourne Cup dress. Many stores and designers provide the option of creating a dress exactly for you. If you have a particular design or idea in mind, approach these places to see how they can make a dress that fits what you are looking for. They will help you create a unique dress customised according to your preference.