With a burst of gorgeous sunshine and cooler breeze, it is no wonder Spring is one of the best times to dress up and romanticize our idle days.
And if you are in Australia (particularly in Melbourne), the Spring season begins with our famous Melbourne Spring Carnival – a month-long celebration of horse racing, parties (including lots of drinking for many), and of course, dressing up for the occasions together with your friends and family.
I have never been a punter, however, I love the idea of dressing up and appreciate the styles and fashion including the inspirations behind their look. Some ladies have dedicated their time to even join the annual pageant – Fashions on the Field, where they showcase their unique styles, and creativity with the hopes of taking home the grand prize!
One of the highlights of this carnival is Kennedy Oaks Day, a jewel in the crown of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, which is a celebration steeped in history and tradition. It’s a day that honors the grace and strength of thoroughbred fillies (female horses), and over the years, it has blossomed into an event synonymous with fashion and femininity. The day is not just about the races; it’s a social phenomenon that brings together the best of equestrian sport and high style.
In celebration of this year’s Kennedy Oaks Day which will kick off on 7th November 2024, I chose this sunshine yellow dress that I recently upcycled using the previous yellow dress I made. This made quite an upgrade, adding more frills and volume to make it more feminine and whimsical. Wearing a petticoat underneath helps to give extra volume, like the high society ladies during the Regency and Victorian era. I guess bingeing with Bridgerton-series which sewing this dress kick-in.
I also accessorized it with my favorite pearls, a vintage handbag that I bought from the op shop, and a crystal harness that I recently made.
