By ANEEKA SIMONIS
HUNDREDS of loyal punters and fashionable fillies braved the cold to attend the first Pakenham Cup at the new Tynong racecourse.
Sunday marked the third meeting at the new venue, which was packed to the brim with people who didn’t let a little rain dampen their spirits.
There were eight thrilling races sponsored by local businesses, as well as an emotional Anzac Day tribute and a lot of stylish fashionistas.
It was a case of almost anything goes on the Fashions on the Field. There was black, white, pastels and bright colours. There were large fascinators and classy hats. Dresses were kept at a respectable knee-length and shoes had tiny, walkable, heels. Bold lips were key. For men, grey and blue suits stood out, along with sharp shoes and a classic fedora. Taking out first place as Lady of the Day was seasoned parader Christie Viney, who proved good fashion doesn’t always come at a price.
“The outfit was mostly vintage. The top was a dress I found in a vintage store. And I had the skirt made. The hat I found on eBay for the 50s,” the Chelsea woman explained.
It was Christie’s first time exhibiting at the Pakenham Racing Club – but it won’t be her last.
“I tend to enter over the spring season … there aren’t many options over autumn. I really enjoyed it.”
Hayley Conn from the Pakenham Racing Club said she was thrilled with the turnout that did not shy away from a little wet weather.
“The day went well. It was a little cold but that didn’t stop the crowd.”
She said around 50 entrants took part in the Fashions on the Field parade, each exhibiting a very “high standard” of dress.
“The judges were very impressed.” Hayley said.
The judging panel included milliner Jill Humphries from Jill and Jack Millinery, Scott Fiora and Ian Livock from the Australia Fashion Guide and guest judge Chantal Hryniewski from the Channel 10 series The Bachelor.
The next fashions on the field event will be at the Club’s Oaks Day event on Thursday 5 November.
