The Australian Turf Club (ATC) have announced the details of the Fashion Stakes competition for 2026 as follows:
Royal Randwick
A dedicated Fashion Stakes Entry Point will operate at the following racedays at Royal Randwick, located adjacent to the Theatre of the Horse:
- Sydney Surf to Turf Day – Saturday 19 September
- TAB Epsom Day – Saturday 3 October
- TAB Everest Day – Saturday 17 October
- Moët & Chandon Spring Champion Stakes Day – Saturday 24 October
To register, have your photo taken and submitted for judging.
Registrations will close at 2.00pm on each raceday, with the exception of Moët & Chandon Spring Champion Stakes Day, where entries will close at 1.00pm ahead of the Grand Finale.
Live heats commence from 3:00pm on each raceday, except for Moët & Chandon Spring Champion Stakes Day, when they commence from 2:00pm. The Grand Finale will take place immediately following the live heats. All times are subject to change.
Rosehill Gardens
A roving Fashion Stakes expert will be searching the course for standout Wildcard Entries at the following racedays at Rosehill Gardens:
- Yulong Golden Rose Day – Saturday 26 September
- Hill Stakes Day – Saturday 10 October
Successful Wildcard Entries will be advised by 2.00pm each day.
Categories
BEST DRESSED – celebrates a well-styled raceday outfit that reflects both personal flair and elegance, excluding traditional suiting. The outfit should incorporate millinery and complementary accessories such as jewellery, shoes, bag, or gloves.
BEST SUITED – honours coordinated and polished ensembles featuring a matching or complementary jacket and trousers, or jacket and skirt. The outfit should incorporate accessories such as headwear, ties, pocket squares, jewellery, shoes, bag, or gloves.
Judging Criteria
Entrants will be assessed based on the following key elements:
• Originality & Style: unique interpretation of racewear that showcases personal style
• Seasonal & Raceday Appropriateness: Tailoring looks to Spring and the racing environment
• Styling & Accessories: Thoughtful coordination of headwear, footwear, accessories and grooming
• Fit & Finish: Attention to tailoring, garment quality and overall presentation
• Confidence & Presentation: How the entrant carries themselves and presents their look on the day
Visit my boutique for lots of fashion, millinery and accessories to complete your raceday look or contact me hats@abigailfergusson.com or in store at 397 Sydney Road Balgowlah NSW 2093 to discuss a bespoke hat for your next event.
More details about the Fashion Stakes Fashions on the Field Competition on the ATC website here.
