Fashion pace-setters

LYNDA FORREST/Dominion Post

HEAD START: Julia Craig, left, and Lydia Riddiford, of Havelock North, model this year???s essential accessory, the fascinator.

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Flowing dresses and fascinators are in and plain, straight suits are out for New Zealand's richest provincial race day.

Nardine Hunt, who will be judging Fashion in the Field at the $2 million Kelt Capital Stakes race day in Hastings tomorrow, said: "With ladies this year it's definitely all about the dress. And fascinators are very popular."

More than 10,000 racegoers are expected, including a large number in their late teens and twenties, who are attending in increasing numbers, drawn more by the atmosphere than the punting, and they are spending up to look the part.

Mrs Hunt had high praise for men who veered away from the standard dark suit and plain shirt. "Guys are really thinking about doing something different. It's great to see," she said.

Trilby and fedora hats are also popular, which will come in handy as temperatures hit an expected 25 degrees celsius. They might need to be wedged on tight, however, as northwest winds are forecast to gust to about 65 kmh.

Event manager Mel Bissell said all marquees were fully booked, with only general admission tickets left.

- © Fairfax NZ News