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
#SPRING & SCREENSHOTS
From screenshots to the perfect wardrobe addition and all things SPRING! See how the latest trends can transpire into the perfect custom piece!
Where has this year gone? Truly though it's pretty amazing that we are sitting at the last day of winter and spring is just a mere few hours away! This time of year is simple the perfect blossoming for weddings, celebrations, spring babies, not to mention some of Far North Queensland biggest race events of the year and of course the pinnacle of Spring Racing Carnival season that commences all over the country!
So with the change of seasons and the social media feeds fastly streaming with the latest trends, we look to what is bringing creative flow to Milva Carucci Design pieces though also what trends client's are bringing as their collective of ideas and inspiration!
One of the biggest take aways from European Spring/Summer runways and also what has inspired Australian designer's spring collections are a few key components
PASTELS
OFF THE SHOULDER
CUT AWAY SHOULDER
SLEEVE FEATURES
LACE
WHITE ON WHITE
DETAILS
So with oh so many gorgeous pieces, silhouettes and fabric combinations it is no wonder that the creative minded simple are buzzing in a sea of ideas! inspiration strikes from so many different sources, a flower, the colour combination of the sky, a sunset, a particular theme, these all add value and essence to an idea.
This inspiration is what brings idea's to life!
With technology being literally at our fingertips on the constant, we can now live-stream fashion shows from attendees of runways, 'to-the-minute' uploads of a new collection or even be exposed to pre-season behind the scenes footage!
It is simple no surprise that we have all ended up in a Instagram scrolling, Pinterest screen shooting society! Having so much inspiration around it is hard not to want the latest designer's outfit or runway trends, though you have no idea how you could ever realistically afford it? Well unless you won the lotto?
Never fear!
If you have a special event that you have in mind, by consulting with a knowledgeable and experienced dressmaker they will be able to take your idea's and discuss options in a feasible way to bring these designs into a similar, perfectly fitted latest wardrobe addition.
As a client, collecting fashion inspiration images, patterns, fabrics, colour palettes and themes can assist greatly in achieving the perfect look that you are wanting to achieve. By 'painting' this overall image it allows cohesiveness for the finished outfit. Through this collection a talented dressmaker can get a good understanding about certain silhouettes that you like or fabric combinations that you're leaning towards. Adding their industry experience and expertise, fabrics can be adjusted, silhouettes can be incorporated and simple tailored or adjusted to accentuate your body shape.
Below is a fantastic winning example of a gorgeous Milva Carucci Design's client! Lucy had a few inspiration images and an overall theme that she wanted to achieve for her fashions on the field entry. Taking inspiration from those images though also using the right fabrics allowed the execution of this design to be sash worthy!
Gorgeous client Lucy wearing her custom Milva Carucci Designs dress
Winner of Contemporary Under 30 and best Millinery at Innisfail Banana Races
With HQ simply buzzing with an array of custom orders and Melbourne Cup Spring Carnival preparation is in full swing, stay tuned for the latest sneak peaks off the cutting table!
Yours in fashion
Kerrie xx
All images via Pinterest
AUTUMN WINTER CARNIVAL - ALL WRAPPED UP
Wow!
Gosh what a busy few weeks it has been! I'm sure my fellow Fashions on the Field Enthusiasts can vouch for the slight exhaustion felt after 5-6 consecutive weeks of getting dolled up, collating outfits and putting your best fashion foot forward! To some even reading this might some exhausting and just far too much effort.... though to the crazy one's, we just simply love it!
After months of planning and saving, collecting ideas, numerous sketches, sourcing fabrics, meetings with milliner's, a multitude of picture messages and phone calls, a new love affair started with my postman and the reassurance that each races day's theme was met, the winter races finally stormed around!! Tedious? I think not, THAT is the fun part!
The first event that kicked off the season officially/unofficially was the Prime Minister's Cup held on the Gold Coast Turf Club on 7th May. With sunny Queensland never disappointing, a gorgeous clear 30 degree day would never have given away the fact that it was late Autumn! The Gold Coast is renowned for bringing out the best in bright, fun and a little 'out of the box' fashion! This was the perfect time to finally use a gorgeous stained glass printed fabric that was sourced a couple of years ago and was just waiting to make it's debut!
Being inspired by the 'regal' fall collection by Dolce & Gabbana's and also drawing inspiration from Camilla with Love's Runway show at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, left room for something bold and different!
Photo via Pinterest
Dolce & Gabbana Fall Collection
To make the print in the skirt 'pop', mum & I decided that a cherry red was the most complimentary colour for the outfit. We opted for a longer length sleeved, boat neck top with a slit opening mid arm to bring a bit of flow to quite a structured outfit and symmetrical print. This flow was also continued throughout with a fish-tail like addition at the back of the skirt in place of where a traditional split would be. It added a feature and a point of difference that can sometimes be the deciding factor between podium placings.
Image by Ross Stevenson
The outfit was complete with a vintage fedora that had the addition of black veiling added to it to bring a bit of modern flair. Accessories included a gorgeous pair of regal gold crucifix earrings, gold clutch and jewellery complete with a faithful pair of patent black heels. I didn't come away with a sash that day though was the lucky recipient of the Bruce Lynton Jaguar competition! Such a nice surprise, so stay tuned for my next blog when I can bring you a stylish and fashionable Jaguar weekend driving experience!
A little #flatlay loving
UBET BTC CUP Day
The following weekend was the official start of Brisbane Racing Club's Seven Sin's Winter Racing Carnival! The first day of the Indooroopilly Shopping Centre's Fashion on the Field competition kicked off the carnival was the inaugural 'Bold Colour' theme at UBET BTC Cup Day. Having the perfect outfit for this theme, I committed to what some may say is the fashions on the field cardinal rule, I outfit repeated! Yes I did it! Though when you have the perfect outfit that simply just works, it's sometimes a sheer waste to just wear it to one event. So a bit of a change to the styling and accessories and it was ready to hit the track!
Image by Ross Stevenson
JAMES BOAG’S PREMIUM DOOMBEN 10,000 DAY
The next day of the carnival I attended was the James Boag's Premium Doomben 10,000 Day. This was the last of the carnival being held at the Doomben track and again another killer autumn's day. The sun was out and was just the perfect temperature to be frocked up and sipping on champagne! The day is themed with a touch of metallic, which saw a field of gold and glistening glamours!
For this particular outfit I had picked up a very different fabric that was sourced from The Fabric Store here in Brisbane a few months ago. It caught my eye, though being a cream, black and teal sequined chiffon it needed to have a specific style to utilise it. Having the right fabric for the style of your outfit is paramount, though being able to utilise mum's expertise you can sometimes think outside the box. Wanting a bit of a different flair and also after falling in love with a dress by Jonathon Simkhai had in his fall collection, we drew inspiration to a mid-length gored skirt complete with a 3/4 sleeve with a bell detail.
Again having a prominent geometric pattern like a houndstooth, bringing flow to the outfit allows it to work harmoniously. As the accent colour I wanted to play up was the gorgeous teal colour, we found the perfect cotton ponte at The Fabric Store again and also a matte chiffon. The combination of these fabrics worked really well as ponte doesn't always have the best finish for an outfit so using that as a lining and layering the two chiffons over it allowed the design to have the weight required and also the fit. The clear sequins that covered the houndstooth pattern gave a sheen and metallic feel to the outfit.
I had envisioned this outfit with a wide brim hat or headpiece though also wasn't completely sure about the style, as it had just happened Jill at Jill & Jack Millinery had just made a ready to wear piece that was just perfect! A slightly asymmetrical deep crown, wide brim hat in a winter cream felt finished with a balck feathered band. The outfit was styled to have complimentary patent black Dior inspired sling back heels from Jessica Buurman, a matching Olga Berg bag, blakc palm gloves and gunmetal silver jewellery.
Spending so much time at the track you naturally form some wonderful friendships with fellow fashions on the field friends - Caren, Marla & Alla.
Image by Alla Demich
TREASURY CASINO & HOTEL LADIES’ OAKS DAY
Well, from one extreme to another, the first race day of winter up until this week we had some fantastic weather! Though with the Queensland extremities the weekend's forecast for the grand opening of Eagle Farm's Racecourse 18 month renovation was looking pretty grim! I was also fortunate enough to have my parents flying in for the weekend and a planned fun day at Ladies Day! Torrential rain, flooding, high tides and the rest of the craziness that comes with a large low sitting over SEQ, the horse races were cancelled, though all of the events and fashions on the field was to go ahead! Some call us crazy though rain, hail or shine we were prepared to go! The biggest styling feat was to figure out how to incorporate ponchos into your outfit!
Traditionally, Ladies' Oak Day is themed to be feminine, floaty and pastel colour palettes. Keeping this in mind I had been on the hunt for a few good months to find a suitable fabric to bring my idea together. Inspired by 70's style balloon sleeve, Zimmermann's AW collection and even possibly a little bit of Game of Thrones, I opted for a floaty A-line silhoutte with sheer sleeves. The Fabric Store had just gotten a shipment of Liberty of London prints in and this was where I found a gorgeous merlot coloured print in a chiffon and a lightweight faile. I could see the potential with the colour palette to incorporate the pastels and rose gold hues that I had in mind from the accent tones in the print of the fabric. Utilising the contrast of the different denier's of the fabric can ensure that you aren't left with an outfit that has an overall dark feel to it.
This outfit for me was the hardest of all to plan what style of headpiece would be appropriate though most importantly compliment the look. I had already made arrangements to have an appointment with the ever talented Sophie of Allport Millinery for a custom piece so after a good chat about colours, textures and possible designs the gorgeous rose gold crown was conjured!
This by far is one of my most FAVOURITE millinery pieces yet! This was the first of a crown like this that Sophie had made and her workmanship is just exceptional! The detailing of each hand tooled leaf and rose petal is to die for! Like anything that is new or done for the first time there is certainly a risk, it can quickly be a love or hate as far as personal preference goes as I do know a few counterparts of male gender that just 'didn't get what was going on'! That is the beauty about fashion and styling! It's open for interpretation though most importantly it's personal preference and expression of your personality! It is as simple as feeling confident in what you have put together!
The outfit was detailed with rose gold and pastel jewellery from Lovisa, pastel pink half gloves a rose gold Olga Berg clutch and the bling was carried to the shoes by Nine West's latest range of winter pumps.
With the talented lady behind all of the Milva Carucci Designs magic my amazing mum
Both wearing Milva Carucci Designs outfits
After the rain had cleared with my amazing family
AAMI Stradbroke Day
Traditional Black, White and a touch of Red is the theme for the last and biggest day of the Brisbane Racing Club Seven Sins Winter Carnival. Since the racing had been cancelled from the weekend before, this was set to be the biggest race day prize pool in Queensland that year, though also a super fun day to finally let your hair down for the close of the carnival though more importantly Brisbane Racing Club's chance to show off the new and improved Eagle Farm Racecourse!
This outfit started a little differently to the others, I had no idea what design I wanted nor style preference. I purchased this geometric black lace again from The Fabric Store some months ago and decided to play up to the edgyness of the fabric though lace can sometimes be a little difficult to start with. So knowing that I wanted to key the geometeric diamond feature in the overall edgy look that I had in mind, I called upon Sophie who worked her talented hands once again on making this gorgeous diamond percher headpiece to tie the clean lines into this outfit. Having a monochrome theme though adding the fire engine red roses for 'the touch of red' really allowed this shape to dynamically hit the mark. Having a custom piece for your wardrobe or millinery collection (as I now refer to mine) is nothing short of amazing! Between you and the master of their special craft you are creating something special and most times beautiful friendships will be made, from this I am also so very grateful to call this talented lady a friend.
So the millinery was sorted though I was still at a loss as to what the design would be. Having mum down the weekend before she actually sewed it while she was here for the weekend! A little different to the usual parcel delivered by Jeff my trusty delivery man the week prior!
Being well and truly in winter, we opted for a long sheer sleeved, mid length dress. What started off as a round neck didn't quite give the right lines to the structure of the dress pattern and lace so a few modifications and the dress quickly become a v neck. When having quite a repetitive pattern and busy fabric it's important to be conscious about closing up the neckline too much. Also when using a dense or busy lace or sheer fabric, try using a complimentary lighter colour to allow the integrity of the pattern to remain as the true feature. The decision to use the white lining rather then the black allowed this to happen though also ticked the theme boxes of black and white.
The overall look was finished a wide Cue black and jeweled waist belt which allowed the lace to be broken up and also compliments my silhouette. Continuing that edginess a black satin choker was added along with a pair of black Zara ankle tie heels, black gloves and nails and a black patent rectangular clutch.
With my friend and client Amanda both wearing custom pieces
Image by Ross Stevenson
With the lady behind the millinery masterpieces, Sophie (centre) of Allport Millinery and gorgeous ladies at Indooroopilly FOTF stage.
Image by Ross Stevenson
Tattersall's club tiara race day
The very last day of the winter carnival here in Brisbane was the Tattersall's Club Tiara Race Day with the Wintergarden's Fashions on the Field competition. Wearing the gorgeous teal number with a few styling changes in accessories it was a fantastic way to finish off the Brisbane winter race fashions.
When seeing the same familiar faces week after week, all sharing the same passion for fashion, innovating new and wonderful takes on racing fashion and bringing their very best in personal style there is no doubt that some truly wonderful friendships are made. Though it is a competition with some fabulous prizes on offer, you truly never know what the judges will be looking for. The supportive environment and genuineness expressed to fellow fashioinista's when they do come away with a sash is a testament to women simple supporting other women in their quest to express themselves! Truly one of my favourite things about racing fashion and fashions on the field competitions!!
For now, the next few months will be spent frantically planning for the Spring Carnival! Though stay posted for the next blog post giving you a few tips tricks and just something to read while you're having a cup of tea!
Kerrie xx