Trackside in Autumn colour

If spring dressing is about freshness, autumn is about richness. The palette moves from glossy and vibrant to deeper and more saturated – a subtle shift that instantly signals the change in weather.

Stylist Sheridan Paine says the seasonal pivot means colours worn trackside naturally deepen in step with the gardens. 

“Earthy tones continue to feel particularly strong trackside." 

"Warm browns, deep blues, and rich greens will be prominent, reflecting the mood of the cooler months. These shades also pair beautifully with autumn’s textured fabrics.”

Chocolate, forest green, navy and burgundy aren’t trends – they are autumn staples. Taking cues from northern-hemisphere runways where the spirit of autumn was fully embraced, ochre, crimson and auburn dominated recent collections. These hues translate seamlessly to Melbourne’s autumn, where depth feels more appropriate than brightness.

While black remains a city signature colour, olive, burgundy, deep red, muted grey and even flashes of chartreuse have already been spotted among the fashion crowd – proof that autumn colour doesn’t need to feel predictable.

Pantone’s Colour of the Year also influences the palette. While previous selections included Mocha Mousse, Viva Magenta and Peach Fuzz, 2026’s Cloud Dancer – described as “a billowy, balanced white” – feels like a reset. Clean white might seem an unlikely autumn hero, but as a base, it works well with darker tones. Layered beneath chocolate, paired with navy or used as trim against burgundy, it adds lightness and freshness.

Ultimately, autumn dressing at Flemington isn’t about abandoning colour – it’s about refining it. As the tones of the gardens shift and the light softens, race-day style follows suit – richer, warmer and in tune with the season.

How to wear seasonal colours

There’s more than one way to interpret autumn’s palette.

Monochrome

Wearing a single colour – or varying shades of one – from head to toe creates polish and impact. Try a beige suit with brown accessories, or a forest-green midi dress styled with tonal heels. Monochrome looks refined and sophisticated.

Colour blocking

For those who prefer contrast, pairing two or more solid shades offers a modern edge. The key is one colour per piece, with no busy patterns. Think burgundy with blush, olive with ivory or navy with camel. For the bolder dresser, purple with green or orange with navy creates impact.

Print and texture layering

Autumn tones also come alive through pattern and fabric. A grey suit woven with a subtle metallic stripe, burgundy lace layered over silk, or a dress in a soft check adds depth without overwhelming the look. It’s an effortless way to embrace the season without committing to one flat colour.

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