The Cox Plate
the cox plate 2023
Since 1922, the Cox Plate has been one of the most important horse races in Australia. It’s not all about the horses however, as these days the fashion and culture surrounding the Cox Plate is equally important.
Bold colours and extravagant hats light up the field for one of the most prestigious spring racing events on the calendar.
SACHA DRAKE is here to help with everything you’ll need to know to create the perfect trackside
style for this year’s Cox Plate Raceday.
What do I wear to the Cox plate race day?
The Cox plate race day has been around for many years and is steeped in tradition.
Because of this, you’ll want to keep your attire to the traditional race day dress code guidelines as this is the one to follow the rules for. Bold styles and bright colours have been welcomed over the past few years, and texture and embellishments are encouraged.
Opt for knee or midi length dresses and avoid anything too mini or above the knee. Midriffs should be covered, and dresses should be kept classic with minimal or no cutouts. As always, denim is a big faux pas on Race Days and should be left at home. It’s a long day, so keep outfits comfortable and classic
We love the Lotus Flower Wrap Dress for the ultimate Cox Plate trackside style.
How do I choose a fascinator?
Choosing the right fascinator for your outfit can take your ensemble to a whole new level.
Balancing the correct style and colours with your outfit not only enhances your Cox Plate look, but also leaves a lasting impression on the
racetrack.
Traditionally fascinators and hats are worn on the right side of the head and tilted slightly forward. When picking your fascinator, you can keep it
tonal with your outfit for a matching chic ensemble or use contrasting pops of colour for a bolder statement.
Fascinators with feathers will add height, and large bases add drama and texture to outfits for a lasting impression
What shoes are best to wear?
Nobody likes the words sensible and fashion in the same sentence, however there is nothing worse than seeing women walking around bare feet with shoes in their hands at the end of a race day.
The Cox Plate is a big day, and therefore footwear really needs to be thought out. There will be a lot of walking over grass and uneven terrain, so avoid any stiletto heels that might sink or get stuck in the grass.
You’ll also be on your feet for long periods throughout the day so thin straps might get uncomfortable or dig in after long periods. A wedge or block heels are perfect for going the distance on a Race day and will keep you comfortable and supported whilst still looking fabulous.
Gold, silver and nude are always safe choices for shoes,, however if you have opted for a bold coloured fascinator you may wish to match back this colouring to your shoes.
What is the best Men’s Attire for the Cox plate?
Cox Plate fashion can be surprisingly varied, although fitted suits with a shirt and tie are encouraged.
In more recent years chino pants matched back with stylish suit jackets have been the favoured style for race day events giving a polished yet slightly more relaxed feel that a workplace.
Subtle printed shirts are a great way to add some colour whilst pocket squares, bowties and scarfs add texture and interest whilst completing the overall race day aesthetic.
Why attend the Cox Plate Race Day?
In conclusion, the cox plate is not just about racing, but also about style and sophistication.
Get your friends together this spring racing season, dress up, and enjoy a day trackside
at this prestigious racing event. Get caught up in the atmosphere, food and fashion for lasting memories with family and friends.
And most importantly remember, it’s not about what you wear, but how you wear it! x
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FAQ
Dress Styling and Fit
For work, minimal styling lets the print or cut do the talking. Block heels, a structured bag and simple jewellery are all you need. For events, add strappy heels, a statement earring and a clutch to shift the mood entirely. SACHA DRAKE's online stylists are available via chat for personalised recommendations if you want a second opinion.
The wrap silhouette works across most body shapes because the adjustable tie allows you to manipulate the dress to your body. It is particularly flattering on Hourglass and Pear shapes as it defines the waist and skims the hips.
For a formal event, keep accessories elevated with heeled sandals, a clutch and statement jewellery. For a weekend or travel setting, flat sandals and a sun hat bring the formality down without the dress losing its impact. The SACHA DRAKE maxi is designed to transition between settings, so the same dress works across multiple occasions with a simple accessory swap.
The midi sits roughly at mid-calf and works across a broader range of occasions including workwear, cocktail events and weddings. The maxi runs to the ankle or floor and leans more toward formal occasions and warm-weather events. Both silhouettes are available in wrap and structured styles across the SACHA DRAKE range, and both are categorised by body shape to help you find the most flattering option.
Every SACHA DRAKE garment is categorised by one of five body shapes: Hourglass, Column, Pear, Apple and Maternity. The brand designs specifically to flatter each shape rather than applying a single block pattern across all sizes. Wrap and reverse-wrap styles in particular are engineered to define the waist, balance proportions and move well on the body rather than just fitting around it.
Wrap and reverse-wrap midi styles are the strongest options for a pear shape. The wrap tie allows you to define the waist while the skirt skims over the hips rather than clinging. A-line midi silhouettes also work well for the same reason.
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