October is a truly glorious time.
The trees are bursting with shades of pink, orange and yellow, the days are getting longer and the ever-alluring temptress of summer looms closer by the day.
But putting this pure glory aside, there is one other thing fashion enthusiasts get to bask in come October each year – spring racing.
This year, the spring racing carnival has arrived in the most glamorous of ways.
Having a couple of big race days already under our belt means we’re now well in-the-know on what the season’s biggest trends are, and thus, our shopping trips to the nearest mall have a heck of a lot more purpose.
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There’s just one teeny catch – our favourite styles don’t always come cheap. In fact, if we go down the fully-fledged designer route one might almost need to take out a mortgage to keep up.
Track side fashion doesn’t always come cheap… unless you know where to look.
(Getty)But your race day look doesn’t have to cost a bomb – it’s all about knowing where to look.
Luckily, us here at OK! are just as dedicated to the cause as you, so we’ve found all the best on-trend dresses for the season that are under $100.
Keep scrolling for all the affordable race day inspo you need.
WATCH: Take a quick stroll down memory lane for all the best fashion from Melbourne Cup last year! Shopping begins after the video…
Puff it up
You’ve probably noticed this not-so-subtle trend hitting the pavements hard over the past few months, and now, it’s moving from streetside to trackside.
Indeed puff sleeves are all the rage for race-goers this season, and the feminine style comes with plenty of colours and silhouettes to play with.
Take the below white mini for example. Pair it with some wedge or block heels, a black or white facinator (we’re vibing a Cruella de Vil netted style with this look) and if you’re feeling bold, a bright red lip.
Dazie legendary lovers linen blend dress, $79.99. Available via The Iconic here.
(The Iconic)If you’re after something with a little more colour and pizzazz, the below polka dot midi number might just do the trick.
Featuring that undeniably trendy puff at the sleeve along with a cute frill hem, this floaty frock will look gorgeous with a pair of wedges and a cute ribbon for your tresses (think loose waves with a pale green silky-style scarf).
ASOS DESIGN sweetheart neck tiered midi dress, $76.00. Available via ASOS here.
(ASOS)Silky and sultry
When it comes to race day, texture is everything.
Along with summery linens, our trusty pals silk and satin are also making a stunning mark on this season’s cutest cuts, and we’re here for it.
When it comes to colours, a classic champagne is fail-safe – and the below cowl-neck strappy style will show off your figure in all the right places.
Pair it with a classy cream or black fascinator, or embrace 2019’s ultimate hair trend by fastening a pearl clip into your tresses and you’re away laughing (ideally with an actual champagne in hand…).
Beginning Boutique schiffer slip midi dress, $89.95. Available online here.
(Beginning Boutique)If you’re after something with a little more edge and a pop of colour, the below long-sleeved satin number from ASOS is your go-to.
Featuring the aforementioned puff sleeve and a modest cut, you’ll be all-weather-ready (and let’s face it, cup day can be very temperamental when it comes to sunshine).
Pair it with a simple strappy heel and a minimal hair accessory – this stunning dress will do all the talking.
ASOS DESIGN cowl neck satin tea midi dress, $76.00. Available via ASOS here.
(ASOS)Asymmetrical cuts
Let’s be real, who really wants to live life on the straight and narrow?
Well, one of spring racing’s key trends for 2019 is anything but.
Gone are the modest straight cuts and A-line silhouettes – this year, we’re all about the juxtaposition – be it in shape or colour.
The below black one-shouldered mini dress is case in point. The silhouette is fun, summery with an edgy twist.
Pair it with a bright wedge or block heel and a standout hair clip to break up the black – you’ll be anything but straight and narrow.
ZARA mini dress with bow, $159.00. Buy it online here.
(ZARA)If you’re dead-set on bringing a pop of colour (and we can’t really blame you, it is spring), then the below mustard yellow midi is a winner.
Pair it with a neutral toned shoe and hair accessory, you’ll undoubtedly stand out from the throngs of race goers in the best way possible.
ASOS DESIGN tall asymmetric neckline drape detail midi dress, $57.50. Buy it via ASOS here.
(ASOS)One-shoulder wonders
There’s nothing wrong with baring a little skin, and one-shouldered dresses give rise for it in the classiest way possible.
This season, you’ll find a plethora of one-shouldered styles that are elegant, on-trend and comfortable.
Take this simple, yet stylish midi dress below. Given its clean-cut white colour, the dress enables you to have all the fun with your accessories – so don’t hold back!
Chancery marco midi-dress, $129.95. Buy it via The Iconic here.
(The Iconic)If you want something a little shorter, the below J.Crew number is sweet and sassy at the same time.
Coloured in the season’s freshest white, you’re once again free to go wild on the accessories front.
Pro tip: Make sure you heavily sunscreen your exposed shoulder… unless you want some unseemly tan lines.
J.Crew one-shoulder ruffle dress, $91.50. Buy it via The Iconic here.
(The Iconic)Jumpsuit joy
One of the decade’s best steps forward has quite literally been the liberation of the ladies’ jumpsuit.
Yep, whacking on one of these bad boys is the ultimate dream – both in comfort and style.
The below off-shoulder number from Marks & Spencer looks smart, but oozes glamour, especially when paired with a killer heel and bold red lip.
Marks & Spencer off the shoulder jumpsuit, $129.00. Buy it online here.
(Marks and Spencer)To brighten up the track side green, a pop of maroon will never go amiss, and the below red jumpsuit is case in point.
Featuring a halter-style silhouette, this number doesn’t need a lot else to stand out. Keep the makeup minimal and the accessories understated.
But don’t forget a cute clutch – a straw or neutral tone will work a treat.
The Fated firefly halter jumpsuit, $77.97. Buy it via The Iconic here.
(The Iconic)