Whether you’re channeling Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s or navigating the strictly black and white dress code at Championships Day – here’s our Autumn Racing Style Guide for the more minimalist inclined.
Mastering Monochrome
The easiest way to achieve an understated, Autumn race-ready look is to opt for a classic monochrome palette. Timeless, flattering and extremely versatile, shades of black and white look good on everyone and add instant elegance to any outfit.
When wearing monochrome, choose intriguing textures like wool, felt and lace to add volume and depth to the look. Or keep things interesting with playful details like ruffles, bold stripes or cut-outs.
For a modern twist on monochrome and the classic LBD, we can’t go past the Milly Cady Selena Slit Dress. With its striking off the-shoulder neckline and romantic asymmetric bell sleeves, this pretty little number needs little else for the perfect race day-ready look. Team it up with black pointy heels, Jenny Bird Large Edie Hoops and our Olga Berg Tora Crystal Pod Clutch, and you’re guaranteed that heads will be turning your way.
The Ministry of Style Azzedine Dress in ivory is another favourite for fashionistas looking to keep it simple on race-day. With it’s dreamy floating bell sleeves and subtle lace cut-outs, this super sweet number pairs perfectly with our Morgan & Taylor Shiloh Lace Applique Fascinator and a pair of nude patent leather heels.
A Hint of Colour
For those of you that simply can’t live without colour, a clever alternative to all-black-and-white everything is to incorporate shades that are close to neutral on the colour spectrum like ultra-pale pink or inky blue.
Cast in rich navy, the Talulah Sunday Ruffle Dress is the perfect non black, little black dress. And with it’s feminine off-shoulder neckline and swoon-worthy ruffle sleeves, we’re predicting you’ll be the most on trend female on the field.
All in the Details
When choosing accessories, timeless pieces like a beaded clutch, pearl studs or a classic bracelet never go astray, and can be worn again and again.
As the finishing touch before you set off for the racetrack, a simple headpiece is the perfect alternative to a traditional fascinator.
For an understated look, we love the Olga Berg Gold Filagree Leaf Metal Headband. This beautiful and simple wreath-style number looks divine perched atop a low pony and adds a touch of Hollywood glamour to any look.
If you’re not a fan of metal, the Olga Berg Feather and Pearl fascinator is a stunning addition to any all-black or white ensemble. With an intriguing, striking black net, this alluring fascinator adds a classic 50s mood.
Layers, Layers, Layers
Not only is layering the perfect way to keep warm, it also has the ability to make even the most simple outfit interesting.
Whether it’s a blazer paired with a pretty playsuit or a pashmina wrapped just-so, layers will keep you stylish and cosy through in the cooler weather.
Our top pick? The Pierre Balmain Double-Breasted Crepe Blazer. Add some edge and pair it with a white palazzo playsuit. Who said suiting was just for the boys?
Keep Hair and Makeup Simple
In the minimalista’s makeup rule book, less is always more. Start with a sheer base and light powder. A golden rule of thumb is to stay away from heavy foundation, especially as anything too thick has the habit of melting in the race-day sun.
A dewy face with a dash of mascara is the ultimate understated look but if you want to dial up the drama, choose the feature you want to accentuate and make it your focal point.
Channel Audrey Hepburn and combine thick lashes and wingtip eyeliner with a nude lip. Or if you’re more of a lipstick girl, go for classic red lip but make sure to keep it light on the eyes, with just a hint of mascara.
For a hairstyle that’ll keep you looking fresh on the field, we love a sleek low ponytail. Pulled together at the nape of the neck and slicked back with a touch of fixing hairspray, this effortless look is a minimalista’s best friend.
Pulling it all Together
Now you know all the rules in the minimalista’s playbook, keeping it sleek and simple is a cinch.
From barely-there makeup to a pared-back colour palette and timeless accessories, you’ll be the queen of clean lines in these amazing Autumn race-day looks.
