From the glitz and glamour of a NYE party at Sydney Harbour to the feathers and frocks of the Melbourne Cup, events are an exciting opportunity to show off your unique style.
You want to look your best at these special events, but you also want to feel comfortable, confident, and free to enjoy the moment. When your clothes complement your body and fit just right, it shows.
In this article, we’re sharing fashion-forward tips for Australia’s top events. We’ll also share how a few smart alterations can help you elevate your look.
Melbourne Cup Day: trackside style
Most Melbourne Cup attendees aren’t only showing up for the horse racing; they’re there for the spectacle – the fashion and fun. Cup Day is arguably one of the most significant fashion events in Australia and an excellent opportunity to have some fun with your style, as most people opt to wear bright colours and fun patterns. If you’re heading to Flemington, this is your chance to go bold with colour, prints, and headpieces. Here are a few examples:- Bright midi/maxi dresses
- Floral patterns
- Elegant structured dresses (A-line is a popular choice)
- Bold printed co-ords
- Sculptural fascinators
- Wide-brimmed hats
- Stand-out heels or bag
Australian Open: courtside chic
People love attending the Australian Open for the tennis and the chance to enjoy the atmosphere, sunshine, and summer style. With crowds moving between courts all day, the dress code here is far more relaxed than Cup Day, but there’s still an unspoken standard. A popular courtside trend at the moment is tenniscore, a look that takes classic tennis-inspired pieces like pleated skirts, polos, and crisp whites and styles them in a more wearable, everyday way. If you’re heading to Melbourne Park, aim for outfits that balance style with comfort. Some ideas include:- Pleated skirts or tailored shorts
- Breezy co-ords
- Crisp suits
- Relaxed button-ups or polos
- Cotton sundresses
- Comfortable white sneakers or sandals
- A sunhat or visor
- Sunglasses
Music festivals: tailored to dance
Whether it’s Laneway, Splendour, or Beyond the Valley, music festivals are the perfect place to experiment with your style. It’s a time to be bold, creative, and completely yourself, with looks that lean into colour, print, and playful layering. The more original, the better. When you’re dressing for a summer festival, look for outfits that show personality but still allow you to dance your heart out. Some examples of this could be:- Denim shorts or skirts
- Crochet tops or mesh layers
- Bold prints and colourful co-ords
- Statement sunglasses or accessories
- Comfortable boots or sneakers
- Upcycled vintage pieces
New Year’s Eve in Sydney: Harbour glamour
Sydney’s NYE is nothing short of iconic, with fireworks over the Harbour Bridge, warm summer air, and thousands of people ringing in the new year in style. It’s the perfect chance to wear something a little extra, whether that’s sequins, rhinestones, silk, satin, or bold metallics. If you’re heading to downtown Sydney for NYE, here are some outfit ideas to help you shine bright as you celebrate the new year:- Satin or metallic slip dresses
- Lightweight co-ords
- Bold colours or shimmer details
- Breathable fabric blends
- Statement earrings or a mini bag
