Daphne dress, $439. Layers and ruffles make for a fun frock to rock during the festivities. roohcollective.com

Social utopia jacket, $599. Spring weather can be unpredictable, so have a chic jacket on standby just in case. brigidmclaughlin.com

Pearl hair clips, $6. Instead of spending oodles on a fancy hat or fascinator you're unlikely to wear again, layer multiple clips on one side for a polished hairdo. Available at Target.

Carin earrings by Elizabeth Cole, $209. If you do attend the races sans hat, you can afford to wear a more bold pair of earrings. narvi.com.au

Collette Dinnigan sunglasses, $249 (for two pairs, single vision). Sunnies are a race day essential, not only practical but also a cool fashion accessory. specsavers.com.au

Caramel open weave cross body bag, $39.95. As well as holding your sunglasses, it'll also need to be large enough to carry your phone, money, Band -Aids and other trackside must-haves. sussan.com.au

Bowie pearl heels, $249.95. Find a shoe that matches the rest of your ensemble, ideally one you'll be able to wear again at your next soirée. aliasmae.com.au

Regular fit suit, $1299. Opt for a wool version, the most comfortable option that will still look sharp at future race meets. hugoboss.com/au

Messer fedora, $99.95. A hat, tie, belt and cufflinks transform a suit into a serious fashions on the field contender. au.brixton.com

Knock shoes, $159.95. These shoes provide comfortable all-day wearability for spring racing carnival festivities. juliusmarlow.com.au

Piper Heidsieck Essentiel, $69.99. Ready to be popped and paired with tasty morsels during your picnic at the races. Available at Dan Murphy's stores.