It’s not often I get to say that I’m a fashion contest judge, but that’s just what I spent my last Saturday doing at Rosehill Gardens.
If you’re not yet up to speed, The Races recently launched the Fashion Chute which is basically a slightly fresher, more contemporary take on the more traditional fashions on the field competition. The biggest difference is, the contest has a bigger focus on contemporary trends and expression of individuality. On the men’s side, this means the guidelines have relaxed to allow sockless or chino-wearing entrants. It’s exciting stuff as it basically opens up the field to a much wider, diverse range of (very well-dressed) participants. Some unwitting race goers were even swooped on by our roving fashion scout on the day and sent down to enter, having turned up for a fun day at the track with no inkling they could find themselves being shortlisted for the Fashion Chute grand finale on Championships Day 2!
I definitely didn’t realise just how tough it would be whittling down the entrant to just the eight I was allowed to send through to the final. Many women looked divine but all it can take is one tiny foot out of place and you’re out (for example, as it’s autumn no straw hats or fascinators are allowed in millinery). It was heartbreaking to see one of my absolute faves from the day knocked out for this very reason! As for the gents, we were hard pressed to find many to enter. It’s definitely worth alerting your boyfriend or brother to if they are into their style. There just isn’t the same level of competition on the mens side, so they have it relatively easier than us girls.
The Fashion Chute runs over four events of the Sydney Carnival, so if you’re a stylish girl (or guy) you should definitely entertain the idea of coming down, paying me a visit and trying your luck.
Entering is as easy as getting your photo snapped at The Fashion Chute!
I hope to see you all there :)
Thurley Dress, Furla Bag, H&M Piece, Steve Madden Shoes.
