There has never been a time when Cindy Fullerton took out that classic skirt that it hasn't turned heads. Two other women have owned the statement monochromatic print skirt in a voluminous asymmetric cut, and they, too, have claimed accolades for its style. It is, in all respects, a champion ensemble. And that's exactly why Ms Fullerton won't part with it.
The statement outfit, paired with an elegantly minimal one-shoulder top and avant-garde millinery headpiece - a bespoke piece to complement the skirt - was dripping in race day traditionalism and elegant finery. It was the judges' choice for the best outfit on the field at the region's richest horse race - The Hunter - on Saturday, November 16.
"So far, every outing, it hasn't failed to place or win," Ms Fullerton said, beaming from behind her winner's bouquet. "Many people have asked to buy it, but I say no - sorry."
Spring racing fashion is famous for pushing the boundaries of tradition. After the rigid formality of Darby Day, the spring celebrates the new - both in season and style - boasting vibrant colours, clashing patterns, and boldness in every sense of the word.
Judge and resident Westfield stylist Kate Kohler said she and her band of judges on Saturday were looking for the piece that spoke to the identity of the person wearing it - that took bold risks, an unconventional approach to trend, and eschewed the safe middle ground to make a statement.
None perhaps better embodied that brief than the weekend's best-dressed couple, Craig Smythe and Dee Worrell. Ms Kohler praised their coordinated coral-and-sage ensembles as sheer perfection.
"Our best-dressed couple have clashed a beautiful sage green and coral orange, and that is just not something you see on the everyday scene, but he has taken a risk with his fashion," Ms Kohler said. Then, on stage, as she presented the pair with their awards, she wondered aloud how long it must have taken to plan.
"We put this together last night," Mr Smythe told the Newcastle Herald confidentially in the mustering yard. "My partner had a different outfit - we nearly weren't going to come. But she put this on, and it just works."
Ms Worrell was arresting in a stunning layered-pleat coral ensemble that set off her dapper partner's statement accessories with understated elegance; they went together as music to lyrics.
Mayfield's Jake Sanderson turned to local tailoring outfit Rundle for his double-breasted sky-blue suit that turned judges' heads for the best-dressed man, and Elle Scruton of Wallsend, in a mix of soft yellow and lace, was the day's best-dressed woman.
Judges similarly praised Hawkesbury's Madeleine Leva for her inspired piece of modern millinery.
"The fashion brings class and flair to a race day," Ms Leva - a vision in green - said. "It's supposed to be a day out where you can put on your best outfit, look amazing, enjoy the horses, and enjoy the social aspect of it."
The Hunter 2024: Fashions in the Field winners
-
Best-dressed woman: Elle Scruton, Wallsend
- Runner-up: Byrony Bourke, Mayfield
- Best-dressed man: Jake Sanderson, Mayfield
- Runner-up: Tomas Robinson, Central Coast
- Best-dressed couple: Craig Smythe and Dee Worrell, Central Coast
- Best millinery headpiece: Madeleine Leva, Hawkesbury
- Judges choice winner: Cindy Fullerton, Hawkesbury
