The renowned Fashions on the Field competition is set to grow in 2023 as it expands to include international racing and fashion followers who want to share in the glamorous spirit of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
For the first time, a finalist for both the major Best Dressed and Best Suited awards will be selected in a new international category for entrants outside Australia.
The international winners will be flown to Flemington for Cup Week where they will enjoy an unforgettable experience on track and compete in the live final against Australian state and territory finalists on Kennedy Oaks Day, Thursday 9 November.
The time-honoured Lillian Frank AM MBE Millinery Award will also be open to international entrants for the first time, with milliners across the world invited to submit a design and showcase their creativity.
The VRC’s Fashions on the Field competition is one of the most internationally recognised and inclusive fashion events in the world, with entrants across all categories encouraged to express their own style through creative, fun and inspiring race wear looks.
In 2022, the VRC celebrated 60 years of Fashions on the Field and unveiled a new chapter in the competition by transforming the traditional men’s and women’s categories to the style-led Best Dressed and Best Suited Awards, with all genders encouraged to enter either category based on their unique personal style.
The internationalisation of the competition is set to bring fashion lovers closer together to share in their universal devotion to fashion and racewear trends, with VRC Chairman Neil Wilson saying the latest innovation to the time-honoured competition will drive reach, relevance, and prestige.
“As we look ahead to Cup Week this year, we are pleased to open the Melbourne Cup Carnival Fashions on the Field competition to a global audience for the first time,” Mr Wilson said.
“Fashion is a universally appreciated expression of people’s individual style and we look forward to racing enthusiasts across the globe showcasing their unique take on race wear on track at Flemington or virtually, which will include the new international competition for the first time.
“Opening up the competition to international competitors aligns with the Lexus Melbourne Cup’s global interest and will ensure fashion lovers across the world can be part of Cup Week at Flemington and this iconic fashion event.