Devilishly creative ones with large feathers, fluffy and pink with matching lace, dramatically large-rimmed ones with baubles, run-of-the-mill black with beads and a few that would certainly have enraged Philip Treacy...going by the fairly large crowd of ladies sporting hats and fabricators, you’d wonder if Princess Eugenie and Beatrice were there as well. Of course, it wasn’t another royal wedding, but The Melbourne Cup Lunch and Fashion Show that took place in the city.
The Melbourne Cup is Australia’s popular horse racing event that’s organised every year on the first Tuesday of November. Held at the Flemington Race Course in Melbourne, it’s the race that apparently stops the nation. It’s in its 154th year this time, and the excitement surrounding it is far from dying down. It’s caught on in Chennai as well. Since 2011, The Australian Community in Chennai, with support from the Australian Consulate General has organised this Melbourne Cup Charity event here. Just like most derby events, it entails a blend of fashion, sport, cocktails and charity.
“Come on faster, Red Cadeaux,” shouted a dignified- looking man in his suit and tie, nervously pushing aside a flute of sparkling wine. Another gentleman loosened his tie and egged on another horse, while a few of the ladies clenched their fists in anticipation, supporting Who Shot The Barman. In the ballroom of the Hyatt Regency, a giant screen telecast the race from Melbourne. Finally, Protectionist galloped his way first to the finish line, edging out the other two horses and its supporters erupted in applause.
The afternoon also saw Sidney Sladen present his collection that comprised western and ethnic wear with jewellery designed by Mini Menon. The models walked the ramp in bustier dresses, maxis, cut-out and scooped back dresses, all shining with crystals and appliqué work.
The event also showcased outfits designed by students from around the city’s colleges. This was part of a design contest for which 58 students registered. The winners were Priyanga Jayaraman from Wigan and Leigh College, Sanah from Pearl Academy and Saranya from Hindustan University. The contestants were judged by Vivek Karunakaran, Sidney Sladen and Mini Menon. Fashions on the Field is an important aspect of the Melbourne Cup. It is quite a crowd-puller with the attendees dressing up to the hilt, sporting fancy, funky headgear and the best-dressed walking away with prizes. In Chennai too, the event had contests that included Best Dressed Person, Best Designed Hat, Best Hat (a large black one with green feathers) and even a raffle.
