By KATE VALLENCE
ANYONE would have been forgiven for wanting to swap a fascinator for a poncho during Fashions on the Field at Wednesday’s Geelong Cup.
Fewer than 100 die-hard fashionistas embraced the miserable conditions to dazzle a rain-soaked crowd with bright florals, splashes of neon and vintage fur.
Fashions on the Field judge and Country Racing ambassador Alex Hecker said she was delighted with the crowd despite the rain.
“I’m glad everyone has made the effort to come out and the girls and guys look lovely,” Ms Hecker said.
Classic understated items impressed the judges and flooded the heats.
Dresses ranged from internationally designed to home-made.
It wasn’t just the dresses that excited, with inventive contestants using the weather to inspire accessories like umbrellas.
A hotly contested classic racewear category went down to the wire, with crowd favourite Jacqueline Russo taking out the title.
Dressed in a pattern-clashing shift dress, the elegant Ms Russo wore a stunning hat designed by Melbourne milliner Jill and Jack.
“I’m so thrilled to have finally won,” she said.
Rhianna Bruscella won the most spectacular headwear category.
Ms Bruscella, also a finalist in the ladies classic racewear category, wore a white and green floral headpiece complemented by a pair of green shoes.
Describing herself as a novice in the art of millinery, Ms Bruscella said the secret was learning how to use a glue gun.
And the boys didn’t disappoint, either, with top hats, bow ties and pops of colour taking centre stage.
Proving socks don’t complete the outfit, local lad Jack Krzywdzinski took out the men’s classic racewear category.
Sporting a navy suit, brown leather shoes with clashing tie and pocket square, Mr Krzywdzinski said he also had a secret weapon – a girlfriend working in fashion.
