It’s the biggest event during the Spring Racing Carnival (or the year!) It’s none other than the Melbourne Cup. Whether you go to the cup or celebrate at home or with friends, the Melbourne Cup long weekend in Victoria is the perfect excuse to get dolled up (not that we need one here!) Read on to find out more about the Melbourne cup dress code in 2023.

What is the Melbourne Cup Day Dress Code? 

When it comes to fashion rules at the Melbourne Cup in 2023, the dress code is pretty loose. General admission is encouraged to dress comfortably and as stylishly as you feel, whilst the members' areas are formal dresses or tailored pants and formal footwear. 

Melbourne Cup Dress Code Men 

We’d be remiss not to mention the dress code for our men since it’s one of the most asked questions on the internet. As for the ladies, there is no formal colour code however depending on where you’re celebrating there are dress codes to follow. For general admission, stylish and comfortable is the go. But when it comes to the members’ areas, it is very formal. We’re talking tailored slacks (or chinos), a sports coat or blazer, tie and dress shoes. 

When it comes to colour codes and themes though, this is where you can have fun! The beauty of Melbourne Cup fashion is that there are no hard and fast rules. Our take on this? Go bold or go home! As the most important event in the calendar, there’s no better time to go all out with your outfit. We love big headpieces, bright bags, elaborate accessories to make a real splash for the race that stopped the nation! 

5 Best Glam Melbourne Cup Accessories

1. Carlita Carnivale Fringed Clutch

We think this is truly the ultimate party bag. Inspired by the famous carnival (or carnivale) events themselves, you know you’re going to have a real fiesta when you wear this - no matter where you are! 

Carlita features layers of multi-colour raffia fringing and brushed gold tone hardware. She’s ultra luxe and high on our list for deciding what to wear at Melbourne Cup this year. 

2. Etta Beaded Pom Pom Crown

When it comes to fascinators for the Melbourne Cup, we say go all out! The Etta is the perfect way to accessorise like a royal and fits the bill like no other when it comes to the Cup. Featuring pom poms of georgette with strands of champagne coloured beads added to boost this piece's luxe factor. Soft and sparkly, this headpiece would be perfect for a function or ladies' day at the races.

3. Estelle Feather Clutch in Chartreuse

Get ready to be completely mesmerised under the charms of our Estelle bag. In a flamboyant bright lime green shade, she's only for gals that want to have serious fun. Showcasing layers of genuine feathers, this conversation-starting feather clutch bag is perfect to wear with jeans or your favourite LBD for the races.

4. Iris Beaded Leaf Headband

Be the belle of the ball with our dreamy, romantic Iris headband. It’s our take on modern glamour and features gorgeous hand embellished leaves. We love her for whimsical types. 

5. Danni Pleated Satin Clutch

Satin is having a serious moment ladies! Our Danni clutch in hot fuchsia is glam meets sex appeal in a big way. She’s silky and slinky and the vibrant pink will draw eyes in all the right ways. 

Liked this? Take a read of our article on what to wear to each of the what to wear to Oaks Day, best derby hats, Melbourne Cup Hair Ideas  and 5 Spring Racing Hats now! We can’t wait to help you dress up for the races. Discover our complete collection of headwear and party bags now.