We’re bringing you the lowdown on Sydney girl Daniella’s Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival adventure, straight from the horse’s mouth.
Hot to frock! NSW blogger Daniella & Mandy
Blow dries and manicures, headpieces and killer heels. Suits and sunnies, bright ties and floral dresses – a day at the races screams that Spring is finally here, the girls are out to flower and silly season is on its way.
The world’s greatest thoroughbreds, most respected trainers and thousands of spectators turn Victoria into the horse racing capital of the world during Melbourne’s Spring Racing Carnival. While some are focused on horses and racing, the Carnival is a key event on the social calendar of locals and visitors alike – an excuse for glamorous dress ups, drinking champagne and enjoying a fun day with friends.
Brian McFadden charms the ladies
On a whirlwind trip to Melbourne, a girlfriend and I were invited to the Westfield Doncaster Styling Suite on the Melbourne Cup Carnival Preview Day. A flock of brightly dressed fashionistas in the latest styles matched with colourful, artistic hats greet us as we entered the tent. Themed pink, red and white, the pink champagne flowed as we admired the sensational display of roses heralding the arrival of Spring.
Treated to an intimate performance by larrikin Irishman, Brian McFadden, he joked with the crowd before charming the ladies with his signature songs. The Westfield fashion show was one of many highlights of the day, providing us with a glimpse of the block colour trends dominating the Spring season. An excuse for ladies to look glam and men to look dapper, the mood was festive as bets were placed.
The Lolly Counter
Creative catering by Peter Rowland showcased the fine cuisine that Melbourne is renowned for, while our attention was captured by the lolly counter. A childhood delight of marshmallows, musk sticks and liquorice balls, we were given a carton and the opportunity to create a DIY take home pack.
One would be excused for forgetting that there were horses involved, as air kisses were exchanged and elegant outfits admired. Every so often the well-heeled crowd would turn to the screen, riveted and clasping tickets as the races ran – eliciting both cheers and composed groans as the horses claimed positions. Then, quickly back to the more sociable business of mingling, enjoying the delectable canapés and ensuring no wine glass went unfilled.
Where we stayed
Mint Rhapsody Melbourne
Our studio room at the Mint Rhapsody hotel provided a modern, luxurious respite from the days’ momentum. Complete with a kitchenette, divinely soft beds and a sunny outlook, the staff went out of their way to be helpful as we negotiated the unfamiliar Melbourne terrain. Ideally situated between the city and St Kilda, it led us to brunch at Il Fornaio, a bakery that confirmed Melbourne’s reputation for fabulous food.
Click here for more info on the Melbourne’s Spring Racing Carnival (as provided by Victorian Racing Club).
