Kate Waterhouse ON TRACK
9th Oct 2015
As one of the gorgeous faces of our On Track campaign for SS15, we asked journalist, blogger and daughter of Australian racing royalty, Kate Waterhouse to give us her do’s and don’t’s and tips and tricks for trackside fashion. Read on to gain an insight into what a racing day looks like for this busy mum, as she shares her must-haves for a day on the track, the importance of picking the perfect race-day shoes and more.
Why did you want to collaborate with Wittner for Spring Racing SS15?
Heels are a really important aspect of Spring Carnival dressing. I was really keen to collaborate with Wittner for SS15 Spring Racing as Wittner provides so many great options in the latest trends that are perfect for racewear as well as being a brand that my readers really connect with.
What does the morning of the races look like for you?
It’s go, go, go! I’m up early with my daughter getting her ready for her day. Then straight into hair and makeup and out to the track.
Which is your favourite Spring Racing day and why?
I love Derby Day – not only is it a premium race day with multiple Group One races but the fashion is also world class.
Where will we find you after a day at the races?
A quiet dinner with my husband and close friends, enjoying great wine and delicious food… and putting my feet up.
Do you dress differently for each race day and what style tips would you give for each?Derby Day is traditionally black and white. The secret to a monochrome look is in the detail. Beautiful tailoring is key on this day.
Melbourne Cup is always colourful and fun. Be adventurous and wear your most fashion-forward look on this day.
Oaks Day is ladies day so ultra-feminine is the way to go. Think pretty pastels or an asymmetrical frilled neckline which is very feminine and a winning look this season.
Where do you start when planning your Spring Racing outfits?
I start with the dress and then everything follows after that.
Hat or fascinator?
I think a hat or a sculptural headpiece is the way to go this season.
Do you have any racing fashion do’s or don’ts?
Do’s:
Opt for black and white on Derby Day.
Make sure you have comfortable heels on at the races as it’s a long day standing on your feet. Try a clutch with a shoulder strap so you can keep your hands free to juggle your champagne and race-book!
Don’ts:
Don’t overload on fake tan – it’s a day event so try and keep the makeup subtle and fresh.
Never take your shoes off – barefoot is never a good idea!
How important is wearing the right heel to the races?
So important! As I mentioned, it’s a long day standing on your feet so you have to find the right heels. If you are wearing new shoes a good tip is to wear them in around the house prior to the event so you don’t end up with blisters.
What are the 5 things you need to survive a day at the races?
Lip gloss for touch-ups, my phone for all the Instagram action, plenty of water to keep hydrated, a pen for writing down winning tips and my lovely husband!
What is your favourite drink at the races?
Champagne!
3 words to describe your style?
Classic and relaxed.
Which 3 shoes are your picks from the Wittner SS15 collection and why?
1. Page Heel – perfect for night out
2. Pavia – a wardrobe essential
3. Clara – ideal for adopting the 70’s trend this season
As racing and fashion royalty, how do you keep reinventing your style each year?
I think with dressing for the races it’s all about following current runway trends but applying race wear tradition.
What are your tips for taking on the feminine trend without looking
overdone?
It’s all about being subtle.
The seventies trend is huge this season! How can we make it work for a day on the track?Floppy hats and a 70’s chunky heel is a great way to apply the trend and make it work for a day on the track.
Traditionally, the races are a more conservative event. How can we work an edgier look for the Spring Racing Carnival?
You can have a lot of fun with your outfit… it’s just about staying within the race wear rules (i.e. no midriffs, longer hemlines etc.) but you can still do that with a fashion-forward twist.