flagshipSun 4 Oct 2026
Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe
ParisLongchamp, Paris
Parisian Chic – refined and elegant, hats encouraged
You are invited · Sat 31 Oct 2026
Victoria Derby Day
Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne, Australia
flagshipHats required
Theme: Black and White. The most formal day of the carnival. Strict black-and-white monochrome with sophisticated interpretation. Sleek dresses, tailored jumpsuits, structured pieces, lace overlays. Grey tones and cream acceptable.
Theme colours
- black
- white
what to wear
The dress code
- Dress standard
- Black Tie / Morning Dress
- Millinery
- required
- Season
- Spring
- Official flower
- Blue Cornflower
- Prize money
- Victoria Derby G1, Cantala Stakes, Empire Rose Stakes
Women
Black and white theme day. Monochrome elegance with sophisticated millinery.
Required
- Black and white attire
- Fascinator or hat
- Elegant footwear
Encouraged
- High-contrast styling
- Architectural millinery
- Structured silhouettes
Leave at home
- Colour (theme is black & white)
- Casual wear
- Denim
Men
Black and white formal attire. Morning suit or dark suit preferred.
Required
- Black or charcoal suit
- White shirt
- Black tie
- Polished shoes
Encouraged
- Morning suit
- Top hat (The Birdcage)
- White pocket square
Leave at home
- Coloured suits
- Casual wear
- Brown shoes
Formal enclosures
Men: Morning suit traditionally worn (morning coat, waistcoat, top hat). Black, charcoal, or light grey suits. Women: Suitable racewear standard.
Styling notes
Play with textures, patterns (stripes, polka dots), and silhouettes. Statement hats or fascinators in black, white, or combination. Wide-brimmed hats popular. Tip: A pop of red lipstick or bright manicure adds flair.
Weather
Early November - typically 16-20°C. Classic spring racing conditions. Light jacket recommended for evening.
Part of
Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival
Sat 10 Oct 2026 to Sat 7 Nov 2026 · Flemington & Caulfield
The world's greatest racing carnival—$25+ million in prize money, four days at Flemington, and the race that stops a nation. Historic 2026: Cox Plate moves to Flemington.
Derby Day: Black and white monochrome—the most formal day. Melbourne Cup: Bold colour and carnival spirit—make your sartorial mark. Oaks Day: Feminine elegance, pastels, florals. Stakes Day: Relaxed garden party.
Fabrics: All styles from structured formal to relaxed garden party depending on day
- Black and White
- Bold Colour
- Feminine Elegance
- Garden Party
Check the official details before you go: vrc.com.au ↗
for the day
Shop the look
Wendy Scully Millinery
Pink Pastel Texture Fabric Bandeau Headband
$410
Millinery By Mel
MBM5308
$265
Hello Curve
Meryl Plus Size Black Gold Midi Cocktail Dress
$329
Hello Curve
Elyn Plus Size Teal Off Shoulder Cocktail Dress
$269
Blue Bungalow
Alcatraz Beige Leather Slingback Mule
$129.95
Alias Mae
Parlez Black Leather
$229.95
Samantha Rose
Avera Bag
$75
Samantha Rose
Aloria Bag
$79
Also on the day
save the date
Coming up
majorSat 10 Oct 2026
Caulfield Guineas Day
Caulfield Racecourse, Melbourne
Melbourne spring carnival begins. Sophisticated spring elegance with statement millinery.
flagshipSat 17 Oct 2026
Sportsbet Caulfield Cup Day
Caulfield Racecourse, Melbourne
Major Group 1 day leading into Melbourne Cup Carnival. Spring elegance with sophisticated millinery.
