Your ultimate guide to Melbourne Cup 2024 Race Day style

Just like Royal Ascot, it is where you get your best frocks out of the wardrobe, ready to dazzle.

This A-Z will give you everything you need to know for a race to remember, fashionista style. 

And no, this guide isn’t meant to take away from your originality or serve as fashion police.

Take each bit of advice as guidance, ideas to help you not feel out of place, or just inspiration to find an outfit that will make you feel special for the day. 

And, perhaps most importantly, we’ll take you through the fashion quirks of the Melbourne Cup.

Every single day of the celebrations has its own dress code and general expectations. And, perhaps most importantly, some clothing items are 100% banned. And we mean banned!

What’s not allowed?

For those of you who plan on joining the Members Enclosure, there are specific sets of rules you must follow. In other words, there is a strict dress code. 

For ladies, shorts, joggers, sports clothing, or scruffy footwear, they are forbidden. You may not wear shorts, a jumpsuit, pants tucked into your socks, or torn clothing (yes, even if they are ‘designer’ style!). 

In effect, wear what you would to a formal event, like a wedding or event dinner. This is NOT smart casual, so no cute tops combined with dressy jeans either. Your jacket should also be formal; avoid parkas, sporty rain jackets, or any other casual coat.

For men, keep it simple. Stick to a suit, although tailored trousers are allowed, as long as you combine them with a tailored blazer and tie/bow tie.

Ensure you avoid cravats as an alternative, as this is not permitted. Again, avoid any of the items we’ve already listed. In addition, no safari suits, peaked caps, pullovers, rugby tops, or cardigans.

This strict dress code is for the Members Enclosure only, but we think it’s a good guide for the Melbourne Cup. For this event, it’s almost impossible to overdress.

Also, if you or any of your companions have a National Dress, this is not only welcome but encouraged. Just make sure it is the formal version of attire.

 

Don’t forget the weather

The Melbourne Cup takes place on the first Tuesday of November. For the uninitiated, who may assume it will be hot and sunny every single day, you’re in for a potentially nasty surprise. 

Yes, the weather will likely be very nice. It’s the end of Spring, after all. However, keep in mind that the Melbourne Cup takes place in, well, Melbourne. If you’re Australian, you know the weather can change from one moment to the next. 

Dress for sunshine, but always be ready for an emergency rain plan. Because the Cup can be quite busy, umbrellas should be a second option. Don’t be afraid to don a stylish raincoat.

Focus on the headwear

When it comes to your dress, simplicity is key. Keep it classy, ladies. You don’t want to stand out, a dress with a floral is perfectly fine, as long as the colours are not too outlandish. 

Ideally, the focus of your outfit should be your headwear, not your dress. That is what the Melbourne Cup is all about, and what makes it a little different from your standard day out. 

There is room to get creative here. Your headwear should be formal, of course, but don’t be afraid to show off and get something you would otherwise never get the opportunity to wear. Think whimsical, inventive, and perhaps even a little extravagant!

 

Backup pair of flats

Remember, practical. Yes, the Melbourne Cup is a stylish affair, but just like when you go to a wedding, it’s important that you take a backup pair of flats with you.

We recommend opting for a packable pair, of which there are many options online. Stick to the good brands, because the cheaper kind will hurt and are not quite as packable as they claim.

 

Themed days

The Melbourne Cup Carnival happens over several days, and each has its own theme you should pay attention to: 

Derby Day is all about the monochrome style, black and white, more formal than formal. Tailored suits are your best friend, and an elegant dress to accompany your beautiful headwear. This is the day when you pretend to be a prince/princess! 

Melbourne Cup Day gives its focus to fun. There is no dress code, as such, at least not in an official capacity. However, this is when most people tend to go all out, looking to make a statement. Bright colours will be seen throughout the day, with some pushing the outlandish.

Oaks Day is all about the ladies. Florals, lace, and skirts that flow are the theme of the day. This is where ladies will show off their class by wearing simple but powerful outfits.

Stakes Day is also known as Family Day. It’s a little more casual, but remember you’re still at the Melbourne Cup. Chino shorts, sundresses, and shirts, but not necessarily with a tie.

And remember, enjoy the Cup. If you don’t want to go full-on formal, it’s not a requirement every single day (unless you’re in the Members Enclosure).

It’s about having fun and showing off your style.