When it comes to Fashions on the Field, it's a jungle out there - and while animal prints remain strong this season, would-be fashionistas best leave last season's off-the-shoulder look at home, lest risk a real cat fight.
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In 2019 two of Moree's most stylish, Sarah Kirkby and Toy Barwick, will be scouting the crowds for the highly coveted Fashion on the Field competition at next weekend's Moree Picnic Races.
And from behind their cat-eye sunglasses, there will be little this sharp-sighted duo will miss.
"It's all about the detail and dressing appropriately for the occasion," advises Toy.
"Pick a certain style, start with one key piece and work around that."
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Animal prints, such as snake and leopard, are strong this season, with the pant suit also making a return to the winner's circle.
And when it comes to the current Western trend, fashion cowgirls will do well to heed Toy's wise advice - "subtlety is the key, it's not a dress up party".
With hair clips, headbands and bows all replacing traditional fascinators and headwear this season, Sarah said she was excited to see what looks would emerge next weekend.
"While this season's headwear isn't traditional, it's reflective of fashion's evolution - I'm looking forward to seeing some beautiful bows and clips - but they need to be obvious enough to be a feature," she said.
Toy also expressed her penchant for a blazer dress - but warned that getting the perfect length was tricky.
She strongly advises against a length at which it simply appears you forgot your pant.
Mixed prints such as floral and animal was another of the girls' favourites, and while autumn colours always looked beautiful, they wouldn't shy away from spring hues.
"European fashion is strong at the moment, and features a beautiful, soft pastel palette."
Likewise, playing with different textures could also score you a spot on the podium, but the girls' suggested leaving the beautiful silks of last season exactly there.
"While there are some gorgeous silk pieces around, autumn racing requires a heavier texture."
This season, the slingback adorns the most well-heeled women, and the girls' advise that a good block or court heel would elevate this classic silhouette into Fashions on the Field contention.
"Traditionally strappy shoes are a no-no for autumn and winter racing, but as long as toes are covered it's a look we can't get enough of."
Toy also said she was looking forward to individual twists on current trends, and loved a bit of fashion risk.
"The pant suit is so strong this year, but in pastel it's truly something special."
With Fashions on the Field one of the highlights of The Moree Picnic Races, Sarah enthused that there was always a beautiful cross section of designers on display, and that Moree race-goers were fashion forward and enthusiastically embracing of fashion trends,"
"There is definitely an element of decorum recommended for picnic racing fashions, with anything too tight, revealing, strapless or mid-drift baring to be avoided."
"Lengths should be not too short, with trousers and jumpsuits acceptable, as long as they are full length."
Toy advised that a millinery or hair feature was always required for the Fashions on the Field competition, but that a felt and leather hat was preferred over straw.
"Keep in mind the races are a daytime event, so be wary of materials and shapes that are evening like, such as metallic, sequined or high shine textures," Toy said.
And it's not all about the fillies, with many a stallion heading in from the paddock for a groom come Saturday.
"For men we're looking for accessories such as a hat, pocket handkerchief, beautiful watches, cufflinks or sunglasses."
Again, men should avoid straw hats, and the girls' said the Trilby had also run its course.
"Men can pull off some really handsomely shaped hats - there are some lovely Akubras and the like - just don't wear them in from the paddocks please!
"Polished shoes and a matching belt also go a long way, and you just can't go past a well fitted suit or sports jacket - not too baggy, not too long and not too tight."
And with a high calibre prize package befitting the quality on offer, it's worth putting your best, well-heeled, foot forward next Saturday, May 25.
Coveted prizes include generous packages from major sponsors, Beauty Matters and Assefs, plus a plethora of goodies from sponsors including a pair of RM Williams boots thanks to Syngenta.
Gates to The Moree Picnic Races open at 12.00pm, with the event also including a quality six race line up, Marquee Luncheon, Calcutta and an evening Marquee Dinner Dance featuring The Voice's Rennie Adams.
Tickets to the evening Dinner Dance are currently available at www.moreepicnicraces.com.au
