Flemington’s Fashion legacy shines in Auckland

The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) recently took the glamour of the Melbourne Cup Carnival to Auckland with a captivating showcase at Administrator House. The event, emceed by Ryan Teece, celebrated the strong bond between New Zealand and Australia’s most prestigious racing event, uniting fashion enthusiasts and racing figures in anticipation of the 2024 Melbourne Cup Carnival.

VRC 7 October 2024

New Zealand’s impact on Flemington and the Melbourne Cup Carnival is undeniable. From Lexus Melbourne Cup champion Verry Elleegant to leading trainers like Chris Waller and acclaimed jockeys like James MacDonald, Kiwis have become integral to this iconic event. The showcase honoured this history while highlighting the crucial role fashion plays at Flemington throughout Cup Week.

Guests were treated to a stunning exhibition of images from the VRC archives, showcasing the spectacular racewear that has graced Flemington. Each photograph, enlarged and displayed throughout the gallery, told a story of elegance, creativity, and the enduring allure of Cup Week style.

The VRC's EGM of Marketing, Jo King, along with New Zealanders and past Fashions on the Field winners and finalists Eleanor and Anna Campbell, offered their unique perspectives. This passionate mother-daughter duo illustrated the transformative power of fashion within the racing world.

Recalling her recent victory, Eleanor exclaimed, “It was a crazy day! I wasn’t expecting to win. It was so much fun – the best day of my life!” She encouraged others to embrace the Fashions on the Field experience: “Give it a go! Anyone can win. Wear what you love; you don’t have to follow trends – just have a good time.”

The showcase demonstrated that fashion at Flemington is more than just clothing; it’s a powerful form of self-expression, reflecting personality, heritage, and a connection to racing tradition. “The Carnival is everyone showcasing their best looks,” Eleanor explained. “It’s like the Olympics of Fashions on the Field – and it is so cool to see everyone’s unique style.”

Last year, Eleanor defied expectations by winning on Derby Day in a striking black-and-white ensemble before then clinching the national title in the same outfit. “A lot of people say you can’t win without colour,” she shared on the day, “But I did it!” Her mother, Anna, also impressed the judges as an international digital finalist in the Best Suited competition, showcasing a bold three-piece suit that beautifully blended masculine and feminine design elements.

Creating show-stopping outfits for Fashions on the Field is a cherished passion for people like Eleanor and Anna, and the Melbourne Cup Carnival showcase served as a testament to the enduring legacy of fashion at Flemington and a celebration of the deep connection between New Zealand and Australia’s vibrant racing culture.

Flemington’s Fashion legacy shines in Auckland

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