Teenage style: what to wear to spring races

Editor’s note: Samantha (Sammy) is Miss SY’s best friend from school and a journalism student. Each month she shares some style and beauty tips that are relevant to teenage girls of all ages – please leave us a question if you have a teenage style/beauty question you’d like answered.

Ah. Hello there spring. Nice to have you back.

I did say I’d be awaiting your arrival with open, and might I add, BARE arms 😉

And, well… here I am.

With the warmer weather now back here in QLD, it’s time to prepare for the much anticipated races season.

Today we’ll be discussing what trends are about, which styles best suit your figure, and how to accessorise your spring-inspired races outfit.

So if you’re in need of a frock for a garden side party, a formal dinner/celebration, or are heading off to the races, then this post is for you.

Samantha’s spring race style: Cue dress | Lipstik heels | Gregory Ladner fascinator

Spring. We’ve all been desperately waiting for you. And for your clothes. And… maybe the races too.

This season, it’s definitely all about neutral colours. You’ll see everything between white, beige, and of course black.

Floral prints are also back for spring, as well as lace and geometric shaped patterns.

A big trend ahead of the racing season has also seen white on white, pastels, and metallics. Take a look below.

2015 Spring Racewear Trends

1. Boohoo Wrap Bodycon Dress $36 | 2. Lipsy Lace Bodycon Dress $125 | 3. Dissh Midi Dress $75 | 4. Cue Zip-Front Floral Satin Dress $309

When it comes to dresses and skirts for the races, length is also a huge factor. Be sure to pick a hemline and fit that is elegant and most flattering for your shape.

Midi length dresses/skirts are always the safest option when it comes to racewear, with this particular style suiting most shapes and heights.

And girls, if it’s your first time to the races, and you’re unsure about going out with a bang, try playing it simple.

Stick to block coloured dresses that best flaunt your figure and make a statement with either your jewellery or headpiece.

What to wear to Spring Races

1. Kookai Laura Dress $120 | 2. Windsor Smith Comb Heels $169.95 | 3. Olga Berg Swirl Fascinator $79.95 | 4. Olga Berg Crystal Clutch $189

Still unsure about the pop of colour? And would rather a skirt over a dress?

Why not try a midi length skirt (maintaining that elegant length), paired back with a crop and go bold with either your lippy or eye makeup.

1. Bardot Khloe PU Skirt $89.95 | 2. Witchery Asymmetric Crop $89.95 | 3. Design Studio Bones Multi Necklace $29.95 | 4. Lipstik Kabel Heels $89.95 | 5. Olga Berg Eyelet Headband $99.95

While this season is all about sticking to neutrals and keeping it simple, there is still always room for boldness.

If you’ve been about the shops lately, you would have noticed the colour ‘melon’ is everywhere.

Whether it’s with black, caramel, lime, or even cobalt blue, melon makes a statement without being too overbearing, and is always ‘in season’ during spring.

Spring Racewear Colour

1. Tiger Mist Backless Lace Dress $89.95 | 2. Kookai Sophie Dress $120 | 3. Kookai Linear Dress $120

Another key factor of piecing together your dream race day outfit is accessories.

1. Headwear is an absolute must. Whether it’s small for indoors, or bold for outdoors, a fascinator, hat, or headpiece is essential for racewear.

2. Jewellery – either go bold or keep it simple. If you’re going bold with your headwear, stick to one statement piece, or go totally minimal. Vice versa with smaller headwear and simpler outfits.

3. Choose footwear wisely. It’s going to be a long day, so be sure to choose heels with a reasonable height and comfort level.

Lexy’s spring race style: The Iconic jumpsuit | Betts heels

And lastly, don’t forget your hair and makeup is equally as important as your outfit. While it is going to be a long day, hairspray and primer will definitely be your best friend.

If you’re really looking to make a statement, why not recycle a dress you already own, and instead book ahead with your hairdresser and makeup artist.

Depending on your headwear and accessories, updo’s are generally the way to go (also stays tidy for most of the day).

And when it comes to makeup, try something different to your everyday look and experiment a little! Try a smokey eye, bold blush, or add a coloured lippy to compliment your race day outfit.

Finally, don’t forget to pop that lippy in your clutch for touch-ups throughout the day! 😉

Now tell me, have you started planning your race day outfit? What races are on in your area?

Samantha Cheney is a Brisbane-based freelance writer at www.samanthacheney.com, and is currently completing her Bachelor of Journalism and Bachelor of Business degrees at Queensland University of Technology. Her interests include travelling, writing, and photography.