It’s all well and good to have raceday make-up down pat, but if you’re not prepared, things might go pear-shaped. And nobody wants that.
So, before you decide what dress to wear, take these six tips on board.
1.Hydrate before you head off
Even if the weather is mild, you’ll still be on your feet and walking around for a lot of the day. This, combined with a few drinks, spells dehydration. To prevent you leaving feeling parched beyond belief, drink lots of water in the lead-up (I’m talking one to two litres).
Tip: For an extra hydration boost, pop some Hydrodol Hangover Relief ($15.99, chemistwarehouse.com.au) in your purse. Just one capsule will help to alleviate the adverse effects of alcohol consumption (and can be taken while you’re still sipping on bubbles).
2.Big hats are best
Before you choose your dress, consider your headwear. Flower crowns are all well and good, but a wide-brimmed hat will not only look fabulous, but protect your skin from the sun, too. Remember: even if it’s overcast, you can still get burnt – and there’s nothing sexy about a red-nosed race-goer!
Tip: Jazz up a basic wide-brimmed black or white hat with some fabulous fake flowers. You’ll save $$$ and stand out from the crowd with your creation!
3.Sunscreen comes first
While we’re on the subject of sunburn, make sure you slip slop slap before you head to the track. The best way to do it is in your birthday suit, before you’ve done anything else. This way, you won’t miss any of the intricate cut-outs exposed by your dress.
Tip:SunSense Bronze Shield SPF 30+ and Le Tan SPF 15 Daily Glow will give you a healthy golden glow as well as sun protection. #winning
4.Give your heels a helper
I’m not going to try to tell you to wear sensible shoes to the races (even though these flats look fab). I will, however, recommend you use Scholl Heel Cushions or Footcare Fashion: Gel Heel Shields for extra support. You’ll thank me later.
Tip: If you’re planning on breaking in some newbies, this trick is pure genius.
5.Hairspray your style
We’ve all been there: you’re trying to pose prettily for a trackside snap and the wind is blowing your hair everywhere. The aforementioned wide-brimmed hat will help in this sitch, but a mini hairspray such as L’Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Normal Strength Hairspray is also handy for minimising flyways.
Tip: Opt for a sleek hairstyle (such as this sophisticated low pony) to prevent frizz in the first place.
6.Lock down your lipstick
A bold lip look is perfect for spring racing, but the last thing you want is to have to keep reapplying it every ten seconds. Go for a long-lasting product (bh’s Carli swears by Max Factor Colour Elixir Lipstick in ‘Ruby Tuesday’). That way, it won’t just grace the rim of your champagne glass.
Tip: To make your lipstick last even longer, apply a thin layer, dab your lips with a tissue and re-apply some more over the top. To lock it in, take a fresh tissue and place it over your mouth. Then, lightly dust some translucent powder over the top.
Image: Kathleen Kamphausen
Have you ever been to the spring races? What’s your top tip for surviving in style?
