The Melbourne Racing Museum at Federation Square was far more glamourous than usual on Thursday evening. Some of Melbourne’s most talented milliners and several of our most beautiful boutiques turned out to showcase the best of their Spring Racing wears.

Guests had the opportunity to browse the make-shift stores whilst sipping Tyrells wines and sampling a delectable range of cocktail food. Well renowned milliner, Peter Jago who is known for his exclusive, exotic headwear certainly drew a crowd, with guests weak at the knees over his flamboyant designs, which featured bright colours, height, width and an array of feather and floral details.

Fabulous handbags were also on display from the StyleMelbourne favourite, Nancy bird.  Designer Emily Wright’s range of hand printed fabrics mixed with the softest hand-milled leathers made for a delightful collection of bags, clutches and purses that were a huge hit on the night – if you love their designs as much as we here at Style Melbourne do, you may be interested to know that you can shop online at nancybird.com.

Shoe and accessory boutique, Belle Bika also had in impressive cube style display, with beautiful shoes from their own line for sale as well as several styles created by Preston Zly up for grabs as well.  Quirky details, bright colours and luxurious suede and leathers made for a popular showing, in which guests were guaranteed to complete their spring racing outfit with a shoe that perfectly matched their frock.

Spoilt Sister Boutique based in Hawthorn and run by two sisters, Meg and Angie Liston turned out with some of their most beautiful designs of the season.  Stocking clothing and accessories from the likes of Natasha Gan, Tim O’Connor and Bebe, the Spoilt Sister collection was a must visit stall for those who hadn’t quite made up their minds on which frock to don for the carnival.  Be sure to drop in and visit the lovely ladies at Spoilt Sister Boutique, located 3/673 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn.

Designer Rebecca Taylor’s collection made for a super bright and ultra feminine stall.  Flowing frocks and funky retro style shift dresses dominated the range, with a swell of people surrounding the store and picking up a piece or two throughout the evening.  You can view Taylor’s current Spring/Summer collection at rebeccataylor.com.au.

For those guests after an equestrian themed piece to match with their spring racing frock, it was difficult to look past Jane Is. Designer Jane Harris has taken soft leather and suede, and teamed it with vintage brass and shiny silver hardware to create a beautiful range of necklaces and wrist wear.  With each piece individually handmade, you can be sure that your purchase will certainly stand out from the crowd.

All in all, a Spring Racing Fashion showcase such as Turning Heads is a foolproof way to put together your dream carnival outfit.  With frocks, hats, shoes and accessories all in the one place, along with a glass of bubbles for good measure – how could this possibly not be a glorious shopping experience!?
And to all you Melbourne guys and gals heading to the races over the next few weeks, stay safe, look fabulous and be sure to indulge yourself in the culture of Spring Racing fashion and festivities!

Words – Bronwyn Miller

Photography – Helen Oltran