Melbourne Cup Carnival Fashions on the Field launches with record-breaking prize pool

The globally renowned style event has become a cornerstone of Australia’s premier social and sporting fixture, the Melbourne Cup Carnival, since its inception in 1962 and the VRC is thrilled to once again bring the glamorous spirit of Flemington to fashion lovers the world over.

Alongside the competition’s global launch, the VRC is excited to reveal a record-breaking prize pool valued at more than $AUD370,000, making it the richest fashion competition in Australia, if not the world. 

The four categories including Best Dressed, Best Suited, Emerging Designer and the Lillian Frank AM MBE Millinery Award return for 2024.

VRC Chairman Neil Wilson said the increased value of the prizes and participation across Australia and internationally continues to elevate the importance of the Fashions on the Field competition for the Melbourne Cup Carnival and the fashion industry more generally.

“We are pleased to extend an invitation to everyone, from Melbourne to Milan, to enter the Melbourne Cup Carnival Fashions on the Field Best Dressed and Best Suited categories in 2024,” Mr Wilson said.

“As the only sport with its own fashion category, we will once again see designers, milliners and racing fashion enthusiasts showcase the latest racetrack fashion trends and individual styling.

“Fashion is synonymous with the Melbourne Cup Carnival, it is what makes us unique in terms of major events and we are delighted to welcome international participation for the second year and to present the Fashion on the Field competition to an increasing audience at Flemington and though our digital and social channels.”

The Best Dressed and Best Suited categories are now open to all with digital entries closing at 5pm on Friday 4 October 2024.

An easy-to-use online entry mechanism allows all prospective Australian and overseas entrants to enter the competition by uploading a selection of photos showcasing their favourite race wear look.

Racegoers who attend Flemington across the first three days of the Melbourne Cup Carnival can also enter the competition at a dedicated on-course registration site within the general admission Park precinct. 

Prize Pool

The two major categories boast over $AUD111,000 in prizes, with overall winners receiving $AUD20,000 in cash, along with fantastic prices from VRC partners including Penfolds, Schweppes, Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, TAB and TCL Electronics.   

This year’s Emerging Designer Award, which celebrates the creativity and innovation of new Australian designers, will be staged in association with Vogue Australia.

The winner will receive a once-in-a-lifetime immersive design experience, including a visit to Vogue Japan, presented in partnership with Vogue Australia and valued at more than $AUD48,000.

Entries are now open with the winner to be announced at Flemington on Penfolds Victoria Derby Day, Saturday 2 November.  

The prestigious Lillian Frank AM MBE Millinery Award will again welcome international entrants, with milliners from across the world invited to submit a unique design that showcases their creativity. 

The major winner of the Lillian Frank AM MBE Millinery Award will win a prize package valued at over $AUD37,500, including $AUD5,000 in cash and an editorial in Vogue Australia, with the winner announced at Flemington on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day, Tuesday 5 November. 

The Best Dressed and Best Suited categories are now open to all with digital entries closing at 5pm on Friday 4 October 2024.