The Stars Dazzle in Style at Victoria Derby Day
On Saturday, the who’s who of Australian celebrity flocked to Flemington Racecourse for the annual Victoria Derby Day. Part of the glamorous Melbourne Cup Carnival, the event is known for its strict black and white dress code, with racegoers always eager to make a stylish statement. This year’s celebrity attendees did not disappoint, turning up the heat in dramatic looks that brought drama, glamour and elegance to the iconic event.
Jesinta Franklin captivated in a sculptural black strapless gown, accented by a white floral shoulder detail. With husband Lance Franklin ever dapper at her side in a black suit, the couple made a striking pair, having first attended the event together back in 2013. In a full circle fashion moment, Jesinta looked every inch the style star in her bold black and white look.
Race Day style queen Bec Judd previewed her scene-stealing ensemble on Instagram, with the glamorous mother-of-four dressed to impress in a figure-hugging black strapless dress by Effie Kats. The dramatic frock featured a plunging sweetheart neckline and structured bodice, cinched perfectly at the waist to showcase Bec’s enviable figure. A dark nude lip, glowing complexion and sleek high ponytail perfectly complemented the look.
Elegance personified, Nadia Bartel stunned in a strapless white tuxedo dress by HENNE. The tailored gown flattered Nadia’s model frame, the streamlined silhouette accentuating her waist. She complemented the look with an oversized black bow, strappy black stilettos and a structured bag.
Meanwhile, Brazilian supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio embodied understated glamour in an all-white ensemble by Paris Georgia. Exuding sophistication in the chic coordinated set, Alessandra provided a masterclass in contemporizing race day elegance.
A standout head-turner, Olivia Molly Rogers made a dramatic statement in a custom strapless black gown by Drenusha Xharra. The figure-hugging frock accentuated Olivia’s curves, elevated with a black veil fascinator, opera-length gloves and dazzling jewels.
Always impeccably styled, Kate Waterhouse looked refined in a contrasting paneled gown in black and crisp white. Her graphic dress by Toni Maticevski was offset by a striking black hat, finishing the look with chic edge.
While the celebrities pulled out all the stops, normal folk also embraced the chance to don their race day best. Influencer Jessie Murphy glowed in an elegant off-the-shoulder white gown and oversized bow headpiece. Gemma Owen kept her look elegant and on-theme in a sleek black strapless frock, befitting of the former Love Island star’s ambassador role.
Though while many stuck to a traditional black and white palette, some attendees made more daring style choices. Georgina Burke stunned in a one-shoulder pastel gown, accented by a pink fascinator. Meanwhile Western Bulldogs’ Bailey Smith opted for a grey suit to stand out from the crowd, perfectly complemented by girlfriend Gemma Dawkins’ feather-adorned headpiece.
With bold silhouettes, sleek tailoring, graphic details and plenty of drama, Victoria Derby Day once again proved a highlight of the racing and fashion calendar. The stylish celebrity set provided endless inspiration, bringing sophistication and glamour to the iconic event.
