Spring All Wrapped Up!
Well that went truly so quickly! September and October came, and seemed like it just went again and before we know it we are at the end of Spring! Yes 2017 is moving a truly rapid pace! It only feels like yesterday that I was sitting on the plane back to Brisbane after what was a phenomenal weekend spent back in the sunny FNQ with sore cheeks, sore feet, new friends and a little heart that has been filled with even more gratitude for simply having some beautiful people in my life.
Milva Carucci Designs has had an exciting and busy few months with some incredible new and loyal MCD customers truly exceeding all fashionista levels and taking racing fashion by storm. They have collected numerous sashes, Top 10 finishes though most importantly was a chance for every amazing client to look and feel amazing! Having a custom fit, one off outfit is more then just fabric, a dress or an ensemble; it is a creator of opportunities and the expression of true individuality!
We had the official start of spring on September 1st with Cairns Amateurs Ladies Day. The Cairns Amateurs Racing Carnival is truly a highlight for FNQ as far as the perfect way to combine fashion, horse racing and plenty of fun with friends! Cairns Amateurs is renowned for bright colours, pushing the envelope a little with fashion trends and also having fun with the 2 day racing carnival.
The theme this year was ‘Colours of the Reef’ which truly invited fashionistas from all over the country to bring their brightest foot forward! The Major prize for Best Dressed Lady was a trip for two to Hong Kong, so truly incredible!
Ladies Day was spent in true gal pal style! Having fellow FOTF enthusiast Sophie, Carle join both myself and mum, it was honestly one of the best girl’s day out! All frocked up, having an amazing day of fashions and celebrating life and few lucky win’s on the ponies!
My outfit is another one of my faves! Channelling the bright colours that is on trend this spring and also a slight nod to the ‘Colours’ of the Reef theme, this gorgeous Dolce and Gabbana inspired apple print fabric was super fun and screaming tropical FNQ and Cairns Amateurs. With a new Milva Carucci Designs style using the spring trend off the shoulder and lady like frill this bright dress was so much fun to wear!
Complete with an amazing abstract piece by Allport Millinery that was referencing an apple peel, this headpiece was incredible and surely a standout in white and red.
Milva was also wearing a new season flounce skirt dress in a classic monochrome colour palette complete with an amazing Allport Millinery piece.
Absolutely incredible way to kick off the first day of the spring racing calendar!
Saturday 2nd was Cairns Amateurs Day though also the main race day at Birdsville Races. Complete contrasts between sunny and warm FNQ and the dust and fun out in Central Queensland. The best part about racing fashion is truly the emphasis that anyone can have the perfect outfit for any occasion!
Enjoying the festivities of Cairns Amateurs, the Italian Carnival style was where inspiration was drawn for my amazing Dolce and Gabbana ‘Ferris Wheel’ Dress. With a bold print and a subtle turban, this is one of my favourite outfits. Somewhat simplistic yet a pattern dress really can allow the fabric to do all the talking! Finished off with a white bamboo ‘Summer Nights’ clutch from Best Dressed Accessories.
Along with another MCD client Danni, pictured below in her striped horse print dress. we both made Top 10 for the Under 30's category.
A few more gorgeous client's enjoying the races in FNQ!
So amongst all the outback fun, there is always one glamour! Kacey is not stranger to the track though my gosh did she bring standout pizazz to Birdsville! Who knew someone could look this incredible in our Princess Poppy after getting ready in a 2 man tent! Yes ladies it is possible! This amazing piece was from our Spring Collaboration with Allport Millinery and The Opulent Lifestyle Collective.
See more of the amazing outfits worn by Milva Carucci Design customers! Country races to Myer State Finals, the last couple of months have certainly been a busy one!
Gorgeous ladies in their custom outfits at country races!
Never to young to express your individual style!
Stunning client's sashed, making the finals and simply encompassing amazing fashion at any age!
Captured here by Wendell Teodoro at Coogee Pavilion for the NSW Myer State Final.
Melbourne Spring Racing carnival kicked off with Derby Day and some of the gorgeous clients both in Melbourne and country races looking incredible in black and white ensembles!
Both Courtney and myself in Melbourne for Cup Day! Courtney making it through to the preliminary finals in the Fashion on the Field.
Oaks Day fun in Melbourne!
How incredible do all of these ladies look? Popping in a vision of spring colours!
I just wanted to say a huge congratulations to all of these amazing women! How you have put your outfits together, combining the talent of amazing milliners and accessories to perfection, sash winner, finalist or not, you all truly allow MCD to shine!
Finishing off this blog, both mum and I are planning on something exciting in the next month. Perfect for spring time polo, relaxed racing and ahead of 2018 Magic Millions!
For all of your Melbourne Cup carnival wrap up in detail, pop over to The Opulent Lifestyle Collective and follow to stay up to date!
Kerrie x
FLEMINGTON, FASHION & MELBOURNE'S BIGGEST WEEK - SPRING CARNIVAL 2016 wrap up
We came, we GIPHY'd, we sipped champagne & rode the Flemington Ferris Wheel
I'm sure most of you are feeling the 'festive season flutter' now the warmer months are truly are upon us here in Queensland, the days are getting longer and the social calendars are filling fast!
The delay for this wrap up is in light of the absolute perpetual fatigue following the epic lead up to the week, results of the truly amazing time we all had and the sultry weekend conditions on arrival back into HOT Brisbane! It's safe to say that say that Melbourne got us good! An absolutely fantastic week indulging in some amazing quality family time, a few too many Brunetti's treats, fabric sourcing, fashion and of course some amazing race day fun with friends! And for the record, anyone looking at going to the Spring Carnival next year, get yourself to THE PARK! Honestly one of the best set ups I've ever seen! Amazingly themed, areas, food stalls, numerous bars, entertainment was next level and the little touches like cute GIPHY booths and custom illustrations were aplenty!
The new and improved 'The Park' where we hung out for the Spring Carnival
Treats were a plenty! Ohh Brunetti's
When we first booked flights and accommodation all the way back in May on what would be one of the BIGGEST bucket list items of mine, it seemed like it was soo far away with plenty of time to plan all things racing fashion! How mistaken was I!
For those who are only new on the racing fashion scene or have watched from afar, Melbourne is the PINNACLE of Australian Racing Fashion! Being the most prestigious event of the year, the race that literally stops the nation, naturally comes international beauties, show stopping millinery and some beyond amazingly styled outfits! Collating outfits for the 3 main race days is a fashionista's dream though also somewhat a stressful, STRESSFUL venture. It's not just about the bags, shoes, outfits, millinery, hairdressers appointments, getting in and out of cabs, ubers or public transport with handcrafted masterpieces on your head all the while ensuring you don't sink on the grass......
It's the months of planning, sketching, Sunday's spent fabric sourcing, stalking runways for inspiration, more sketches, a GIZZILON picture messages back and forth (think my running total with mum is around 5,000) hahah, building the 'looks' that you want to achieve. Now for the part that you don't truly consider when you are all 'warm & fuzzy' with your outfit choices, have shed blood, sweat and tears conjuring them up and are soooo emotionally invested in the certainty that you have nailed the perfection combination of current trends, palettes though of course with your own twist.
You look amazing, feel amazing but then it happens.....
(WARNING - Style and fashion is an art. Like any art it's always up for interpretation)
The judging panel and their solitude racing fashion opinion on the day is simple:
• May not like pink
• May not be comfortable with textural clashing
• May not like the way you pose
• May be over seeing bell sleeves
• May not like crowns
• May be thinking about the delicious espresso martini's they will have later in the birdcage
You can see a bit of a trend here? So really throwing out a bit of a bold statement, though unless they are ex-national finalists of previous fashions on the field, winners, racing fashion influencer's or milliner's within the industry then there is subsequent amount of variables. When you're literally wearing a little bit of your heart on 'your sleeve' it can be a bit of a blow to your fashionista ego not even make it through to the next round. Something to be mindful of and THE most important thing to remember is that it's just one person's opinion. Though I'm sure any contestant will agree, it's a dam good feeling having your number called out and better yet to be SASHED!
To the outfits
Milva Carucci Designs was represented not only for the first time on custom pieces worn by myself though also mum and a few stunning clients! For mum that was a fantastic achievement in itself to have her workmanship in amongst the best!
DERBY DAY
The first official day of Spring Carnival renowned for black and white and classic styles! Well Melbourne certainly delivered! An amazing, blue sky day, pleasurable temperature and being a Saturday it certainly brings Melbourne-ites out of hiding!
My Derby Day outfit started with some gorgeous textural brocade patent look fabric sourced a few months ago from The Fabric Store in Brisbane. Wanting something classic with clean, structured lines, mum and I decided to use a similar style from what I wore earlier in the year.
The ever amazing and talented Sophie of Allport Millinery worked her magic to create the perfect complementary piece! Deciding to go with the large off white texture sinamay disc allowed the outfit to have a little mystery though also a suttle statement. Shoes by Divaolina provided the clean lines and patent feel to be continued and additionally a hexagon shaped Olga Berg Clutch.
Mum's dress was a gorgeous fluted collar and bell sleeve combination in an offwhite and black contrast Josh Goot fabric also sourced from The Fabric Store. A custom piece by Liana of Sonlia Fashion added texture and femininity to the outfit.
I didn't have any luck in making it through the heats that day though we had a good day on the punt and enjoyed the hospitality and 'Park' vibes of Day 1!
Between the arches of The Park
Mum and I enjoying the first day of fashion and race day fun
Both wearing custom Milva Carucci Design dresses & Sonlia Millinery (L) and Allport Millinery (R)
(Photo by Liana Hastie)
MELBOURNE CUP DAY
The race that stops the nation! Though also brings some amazing, unusual and showstopping pieces to the track! There were giant feather mohawks, bright colour palettes and some colourful characters on display. Some even took the chance to strip down to their bright budgy smugglers to make the most of Melbourne's sunshine!
The idea behind this impart was just all about the focal point of the fabric. This was sourced a few years ago again from The Fabric store in Brisbane. A gorgeous textured polyester fabric that had the sweetest blue bird print. With blue being a large trend this year, I thought it would be only fitting to keep the style simple to let the fabric really sing and then pick up the subtle blue in the fabric in accessories and millinery. Another big trend this racing season has been the boater and seeing the work of Ann Shoebridge last year I decided to go with a custom lace brim boater. Accessories were simple with jewellery from Lovisa, shoes Tony Bianco and a Colette clutch.
Keeping with a bird theme, Mum's amazing outfit also had a statement print in a tonal blue palette also sourced from The Fabric Store. With a gorgeous simple style to allow the print do the talking, contrasted bell sleeves allowed a section of flow to her outfit. Again complemented by an eye catching millinery piece by Sonlia.
As the nerves were a little less on being the second day, I was absolutely wrapped to have made it through to the Prelim finals. From there all competitors go back to the green room for a champagne and await the next round. From up to 80 girls it is cut to the Top 10! It was an amazing experience and somewhat achievement to make it through! Though the true highlight was spending the day enjoying the races, espresso martini's,dancing to Betty Who and Marcia Hines though having so many lovely people in the crowd compliment me on my outfit that day! That's what fashion really is about, loving your outfit, owning your styling and having a good time!
Not only did I make it through to the prelims but so did another of mum's clients. The gorgeous, bubbly Leanne who's personality is a reflection of her amazing, bright and eye catching pink, purple and gold outfit! Was so lovely catching up with them!
Cassandra also wearing a custom Milva Carucci Designs dress and her own millinery creation opted for a gorgeous purple and orange number that caught the attention of many photographers and spectators!
Amanda wore a stunning emerald green fitted lace dress that had an amazing back detail!
CROWN OAKS DAY
Last day of the carnival is always the biggest! Unfortunately mum and dad had to fly out that morning so today was the last day to really enjoy Flemington! The State finals for Victoria with the winner going through to the National finals where the winner receives up to $300k in prizes including a new Lexus!!
My outfit was simple in style as once again the fabric did most of the talking. Taking inspiration from Self Portrait, Mum had sourced the fabric from spotlight and opting with a combination of off the shoulder and a gathered sleeve. Being the feminine themed day of the carnival, lace and pastels seemed too fitting. This was complemented by my stunning crown by Allport Millinery! The inspiration behind the outfit was simple, 'Some days you just need to wear a crown'.
Keeping accessories to rose gold, the simplistic palette was feminine yet metallic. Shoes from Target and my trusty Olga berg clutch. Again I was so very excited to have made it into the prelim finals! So many amazing outfits!
Following the announcement of the winner it was a swift trip back to the city to jump on a plane!! Which might I add we almost missed! Quite the adventure, running through Tullamarine airport juggling hat boxes, suitcases all the while still wearing the crown which for future reference WILL prove difficult when going through airport security!
On reflection, I think my choices stood true to my style, body shape and personal 'looks' I wanted to achieve, though moving forward, Melbourne is in a bag of it's own! It's all about pushing boundaries within limits, being noticed though not focal, being structured though fluid and on trend without trending. You can see how easily it is to sit in that sash worthy position! *chuckle worthy*
Wrapping up, I can say that this has been a HUGE tick on my bucket list, some amazing quality time with my family and fashionista friends is what makes moments like these in our lives memorable! It's really not about the shoes, bags, fascinators or sashes, it's truly about the time and people for all facets of life that you surround yourself in these beautiful memories.
Absolutely bursting with gratitude the last couple of months preparation and wanted to take a moment to truly thank those involved with bringing my visions to life. To the ever talented Sophie of Allport Milinery thank you for simply creating such amazing pieces! Ann Shoebridge my blue boater is certainly now a favorite in my collection, thank you for letting those little birds fly!
But last but not least is my amazing and uber talented mum, words can't express how grateful and in oar I am of you and your amazing seamstress skills! I know I'm possibly your most difficult client though you never cease to amaze me!
P.S. If you're still reading, thanks for clicking the link! Your support to myself though most importantly my amazing Mum's brand is truly appreciated! Between us both, there is more creative inspiration then the walls of Chanel!
2017 is promised to be an exciting one with many plans on 'THE LIST". To stay up to date and in the know on sneak peaks, new fabrics and collections, make sure you subscribe and follow us on social media! Links are below.
Kerrie xox
THE RACE TO THE FINISHING POST
Where has the this year gone?
It feels like only yesterday that Milva (mum) and I planning were my Magic Millions outfit at the start of January! Though here we are now, at the end of October and the race to the finish post (that being the pinnacle of Spring Racing Season - Flemington Melbourne Cup Carnival) is on!!!
What has been a crazy, creative, rewarding yet busy year so far for Milva Carucci Designs it goes without saying it has been an exciting one!
So many wonderful clients, Australia wide being able to partake in the amazing soul, bursting experience of owning their very first custom outfit or simply bringing to life by their visionary of inspiration or requirement!
Spring is the season of weddings, engagements, baby showers, births, school formals and of course spring carnival races across Australia. Here's a bit of a recap on the past two months of a few of the gorgeous client's in their spring custom made outfits in the lead up to Melbourne Cup Carnival!
To kick off the Spring Racing Season Cairns Amateurs was first on the calender. Renowned for bringing together the colour, fun and festivities encompassing the reef to the races it consists of two major days of racing and some fierce FNQ Fashions on the Field Competition.
Friday 1st of September was Ladies Day which is made up of classic racewear, fun lines and delving into on trend components.
Chermay looked absolutely amazing in a European summer inspired outfit taking highlight to the ever present off the shoulder trend and incorporating flattering stripes with contract floral components.
When you have a winning ensemble in your wardrobe why not make the most it! Lucy, so on trend on this black and metallic combo!
▫️▪️NOtNoNothNothing like classic black and white!
Gorgeous Daleena in her custom white dress
Complemented by Sonlia Millinery
The second day of the festivities is Amateur Cup Day. More spring colour and celebrations continue with fashion, races and flowing champagne!
It's not all hard work and no play though! Milva was able to enjoy a day at the track with her dapper husband. It is always nice to be able to catch up with client's on the day and see their amazing outfits all come together!
Everyone looked so very amazing with Bella's gorgeous grey and cream print classic style dress with a twist made the Finals for the fashion on the field in the Under 30 category.
When you have just such stylish parents! Milva looking spring and floral
Complemented by Sonlia Millinery
Gorgeous Bella in her amazing classic twist dress making the Finals of Fashions on the Field
Complemented by Sonlia Millinery
And everyone loves a bit of dress twirling action !
Lucy looking bright and fun in a gorgeous African inspired skirt with a classic twist
Catching up with gorgeous clients
With Spring now in full swing........ the race days were to follow on the Atherton Tablelands & Mareeba.
Below is a snippet of Milva Carucci Design's stunning client's in their custom pieces!
Meanwhile, down in south east Queensland the southern spring racing carnival kicked off.
I attended the Pink Ribbon Cup Day down on the Gold Coast. With such a worthy cause with all proceeds going towards the National Breast Cancer Association, it's always a good excuse to frock up in over the top pink and enjoy a day in the sunshine with friends over a few champers!
Keeping the style quite simple to let the vibrant fuschia pink digital floral print fabric shine, we opted for a boat neck fitted bodice with a gusset flared skirt dress. Complete with a vintage boater with a last minute addition of white veiling and pink braiding to pull the whole look together!
At Pink Ribbon Cup Day
And back up in FNQ, Innisfail Annuals was held. From what would be quite a wet race day (in true Innisfail style), the ever gorgeous Lucy was absolutely beaming in her bright yellow jacquard off the shoulder dress! Absolutely stunning style on her and with a pop of colour demanded spring attention! She made Top 6 in the Under 30's category and won Best Millinery!
Lucy at Innisfail Annuals
Photo courtesy of Heather York
Lucy winning Best millinery and also making Top 6 Under 30's category
As the start of Brisbane Racing Club's spring carnival events kicked off on the 15th of October, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to have a bit of a Melbourne Cup Carnival warm up!
Being the National Breast Cancer Awareness Pink day, the theme was a touch of pink. Rewearing one of my favourite dresses, I had Amy from Pink Lane Hats whip me up this amazing large brim boater. Keeping with on trend metallic rose gold, accessories complimented that. It was a fantastic day at the track catching up with friends and even making it into the finals for the Fashions on the Field.
National Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Day was themed a touch of pink
Millinery by Pink Lane Hats
With Melbourne Cup carnival in full swing there was no real time to prepare for last weekend's SUEZ Cox Plate so this was a bit of a throw together outfit! With the fashions on the field themed 'Embellishments & Individuality', this was a skirt I wore over the winter carnival with an off the shoulder flounce sleeve. Complete with a laser cut piece by Danica Erard millinery.
SUEZ Cox Plate day where the theme was embellishment and individuality
Millinery by Danica Erard Millinery
A very brief overview of the wonderful Milva Carucci Designs client's over the start of spring!
As you can see it has been a very busy few months in preparation though now it's time for mum to have a well deserved holiday as we head off to Melbourne for a week filled with fashion, Flemington, horses, food and the amazing Melbourne culture! Stay tuned for the Spring Carnival Wrap up on our return to give you a full run down on our spring carnival outfit preparations!
So until then follow both myself and Milva Carucci Designs on social media for all the live updates on all things fashion at Flemington, links are below!
Kerrie xx