“I’ve loved Fashions on the Field for a number of years, but the categories that involve family are always my favourites,” she says. “It’s such a fun way to dress up together, enjoy the races and be part of the wonderful atmosphere.”
The winning looks were shaped by the season. Autumn was the starting point – rich tones, slightly heavier textures, and a palette of burnt orange, rust, and touches of green. Melanie’s centrepiece was a structured, long-sleeve patterned dress by Justin Tong, topped with striking platter-style millinery by Melbourne’s Chris Mullane. Adrian and Sam were turned out in complementary tailored pieces, polished and cohesive without tipping into matching territory.
One finishing touch gave the look extra meaning – a brooch passed down from Melanie’s great-grandmother. “Wearing it made the outfit feel quite special and intergenerational,” she says, “something that felt particularly fitting for the family category.”
Sourced from a mix of designers, including Peter Jackson, Tarocash, and Indie Kids, alongside pieces already in the wardrobe, the looks came together over several weeks – the accessories, as always, doing the final work of pulling everything together.
For anyone thinking of entering the competition, Melanie’s advice is simple: “Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it really shows.”
