Men’s spring racing season fashion: Here’s what you need to know for 24
Wondering how to dress to impress this spring racing season? Men's fashion blogger Simon Hancock is here with all the exclusive tips.
If you're looking for a quick fix for your men's spring racing season wardrobe worries, you've come to the right place. Starting the spring racing season looking on point (or better than all your mates) is essential for racegoers.
The carnival calendar is filled with plenty of events to dress up for. The most popular event days are Caulfield Cup (15 October), Derby Day (29 October), the prestigious Melbourne Cup event (1 November), Stakes Day (5 November) and Oaks Day (3 November).
To ensure your race day style game remains hot we sat down with men’s fashion blogger and all-round cool-guy, Simon Hancock, to talk about his track-side style for this year and the dos and don'ts to take note of. This is how you can tackle the trends and shop at the best retailers for men's fashion.
Image: Instagram user mrsimonhancock
Simon on dressing for the races
This year it's all about linen, light colours and clashing prints. I recently finished my second design collaboration the Mr Hancock II by Institchu and it's seriously on spring racing point. Ted Baker is another go-to brand you can't pass by. Be fashion-forward with a patterned blazer, houndstooth tie and pastel pants. If you're at the races, you want to stand out from the pack. Playing it safe in the style stakes won't get you a girl. Or guy.
Simon on men's spring racing trends
Accessories are huge this year. In addition to your suit, rock a baller watch, a few rings and a floral pin. The devil is always in the detail.
Simon on how to style high with low pieces
I'm a massive fan of rocking a champagne lifestyle on a beer budget. We get caught up on all these blogs and Instagram feeds that are pushing products worth $20K+… To be honest, I don't own more than a few "designer pieces". When it comes to style, men are extremely lucky. If you're on a limited budget, find middle-range pieces that fit well. Get them tailored. Wear with confidence. You'll look a million bucks.
Simon on men's spring racing dos and don'ts
DO NOT wear a navy or black suit. It's spring, dudes. Dress for the season.
DO experiment with colours and textures. Pastels may not be the most naturally masculine palette but I promise you when you're up there with "best-dressed" and your special friend is fawning… you'll thank me.
Simon's personal style
I consider my style pretty relaxed. While certain occasions call for a more formal dress code I always try to bend the rules a little. The restrictions of dapper dressing from days gone by have given way to a more open-minded take on fashion for the modern man and I'm all about it. Open collars, crushed linen – embrace the laid-back luxe, I say. That being said, it definitely pays to style up, sirs. You can never be overdressed.
Your go-to retailers for men's spring racing carnival attire
Image: Instagram user mrporterlive
1. Mr Porter
Recognised as the number 1 destination for men’s style, Mr Porter is your source of the world’s best international labels, boasting a dapper edit like no other. There are so many men's spring racing ensembles to peruse, you'll be spoilt for choice. Being an overseas retailer, you need to leave enough time for your order to arrive on your doorstep though.
Image: Instagram user theiconicmen
2. THE ICONIC
Australian retailer THE ICONIC is dedicated to bringing the best of both local and international labels ranging in price. You can expect to find men's spring racing essentials, a speedy delivery service for spontaneous plans and easy returns.
Image: ASOS
3. ASOS
Whether you’re saving or splurging, ASOS is always the answer. Treat it as your go-to brand for accessories, footwear and prints. Whatever men's racing day fashion fix you're looking for this year, this store has you covered.
Image: Instagram user davidjonesstore
4. David Jones
David Jones knows about men’s spring racing fashion. Whether you’re looking to classic style or on-trend fashion-forward pieces, David Jones will have you covered.
Image: boohooMAN
5. boohooMAN
boohooMAN offers on-trend and affordable clothing options, as well as shoes and accessories. If you're looking to nail spring racing season on a budget, you need to check out this leading fast fashion retailer.
Image: Instagram user tedbaker
6. Ted Baker
This is where you can find designer apparel, footwear and accessories especially made for the modern man. Ted Baker offers sharp men's suiting, quality threads and fine leather accessories that you need for this spring racing season.
Image: Instagram user sunglasshut
7. Sunglass Hut
It’s the races, so there's no excuse not to wear a cool pair of shades. Stocking all the big players’ collections with a wide range of styles, Sunglass Hut is your one-stop shop to make a statement during the races.
Image: Hallenstein Brothers
8. Hallenstein Brothers
Hallenstein Brothers is one of New Zealand’s largest fashion retailers for men. Producing thousands of fashion-forward, on-trend pieces each year, you’re bound to find an abundance of race day attire.
Image: Instagram user charlestyrwhitt
9. Charles Tyrwhitt
When you find the perfect tailored shirt – you go and buy it in every colour. Charles Tyrwhitt produces timeless, quality menswear. Invest in the best and continue to wear season after season.
Shipping times you need to know about
If there’s a last-minute plan on the cards, stick to these retailers to ensure you get your order fast. Use our handy table to compare retailer shipping times below.
Retailer | Free shipping | Delivery time | Express shipping | Delivery time | Is it worth it? |
Mr Porter | On occasion* | Within 6 business days | £15 | Within 6 business days | Yes |
THE ICONIC | Orders over $50 | 1-2 business days | $3.95, orders over $50 | Next day | Yes |
ASOS | Yes, on orders over $80 | Up to 21 business days | $19.99 | Up to 7 business days | Express shipping, yes |
David Jones | Free on orders over $50 | 4–10 business days | Free on orders over $50 | 4-6 business days | Yes |
BoohooMAN | Standard – $14.99 | 5-8 working days | $24.99 | Up to 4 working days | Yes |
Ted Baker | A flat rate of $30 | 7–10 business days | - | - | No |
Sunglass Hut | Always | 4–6 business days | - | - | Yes |
Hallenstein Brothers | FREE on orders over £80 | 2–6 working days | - | - | Yes |
Charles Tyrwhitt | No, $19.95 | 8–12 business days | $29.95 | 4–8 business days | Yes |
More fashion inspo
Main image: Instagram user mrsimonhancock
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