STYLISH outfits and spring racing are a popular tradition, and the Mansfield picnic races are renowned for showcasing classics with a hint of country. Fashions on the Field, sponsored by Delatite Wines, return as a popular feature of the Marks IGA Melbourne Cup Day picnic races on Tuesday, November 5. Located in a comfortable marquee with a stage and close viewing, the fashions competition will be hosted by media personality Sarah Duffy, recently returned from hosting duties at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Elements such as stylish sashes, fabulous prizes, and upbeat music remain as features, and exciting new innovations have been added. New competition categories include Contemporary Racing Fashion, Classic Racing Fashion, and Best Suited Racegoer. Experienced judges Kate and Mandy Storer will join the Mansfield fashions team for the first time. The judging criteria for children and adults will include: Appropriateness of the outfit for the occasion, climate, and individual Understanding and interpretation of current fashion trends Grooming, deportment, style, and individuality As a guide to new categories: Contemporary Racing Fashion will be judged as wearable fashion with bold use of current trends and styling. This includes fabrics, accessories, and colours. Classic Racing Fashion will be judged as wearable fashion that features timeless/conservative styling, i.e. not dating too quickly. It reflects current influences and accessories in more subtle ways. Best Suited will feature a tailored jacket with trousers (knee length or longer) or a skirt. The competition is scheduled to begin at 12:00 noon with the children’s and teen categories, and registration will begin at 11:30 am. Information on all competition categories can be found on the Mansfield page of the Country Racing website, www.country.racing.com/mansfield. Information will also be regularly updated on Instagram @mansfieldcountryraces and Facebook at Mansfield District Racing Club.
