It'll be an autumn extravaganza at this year's Black Opal Stakes Fashions on the Field.
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Anticipate rich reds, sapphire blues, emerald greens and burnt orange, says style judge and media executive of Racing NSW, Julieanne Horsman.
This Sunday will also be quite the headwear affair.
"There are many great milliners in the Canberra area and the southern districts of NSW. So expect the millinery competition to be really outstanding," Ms Horsman said.
While an ornate fascinator wouldn't exactly work for a Braddon brunch, nor would a velvet hat be fitting for a night on the town, Black Opal is a time for many Canberrans to give their more "extravagant" pieces a whirl.
"For me, I enjoy wearing things to the races that I wouldn't normally wear day to day. So quirky hats and extravagant outfits. I've been planning my outfit for a couple of weeks now. I just enjoy dressing up," Horsman said.
She's even arranged a back-up outfit, just in case. She knows Canberrans will be going "all out."
It will be tough competition in this year's three categories: Classic Ladies Race Wear, Classic Mens Race Wear and Millinery Award.
"The fashion is outstanding, and people travel from all over Australia to compete because the prize pool is so good. You really get the best of the best in Fashions on the Field.
"This is a pretty serious competition and the rules are quite strict."
One of the prizes includes a trip for two to London.
So what do competitors need to remember when it comes to the dresses and suits at Thoroughbred Park on Sunday?
"The hat should be seasonally appropriate. So this time of year, the hat or fascinator should be made of a heavier fabric like felt, leather, velvet, or wood. The outfit should have an autumn feel and not reveal too much skin, but the style of the individual should still be showing through as well."
It's Ms Horsman's first time judging Black Opal, but she's a veteran when it comes to judging other fashions on the field events.
"This year, we'll still see a lot of colour, as we saw in spring and summer, but this time just more muted autumn-appropriate colours," she said.
On the day there will also be entertainment for the kids, including Poplar Corner Pony Rides, a jumping castle and face painting.
Black Opal Stakes, Sunday 10 March, Thoroughbred Park, Lyneham. Gates open at 11.30am, with Fashions on the Field entries accepted between 11.30am-1.30pm. More information at thoroughbredpark.com.au.
