Spring florals earned the winning sash last year, but judges are on the lookout for bold summer colours for the 2025 Cooktown Races Fashions on the Field. Photo: Lyndon Keane.
It is in with the new and out with the old for this year’s highly anticipated Cooktown Races, with a new fashion guideline to spice up the classic spring style of race day.
The Seaview Fashions on the Field will embrace the sweltering November heat of Cape York with a Bold Summer theme, calling for the retirement of the usual pastel spring look.
“The idea is to wear fashion that is unapologetically bold and summery, making a statement both visually and in terms of self-expression,” Fashions on the Field co-ordinator Jacinta McCosh said.
“It’s all about standing out with vivid colours, striking silhouettes, and daring designs that exude personality and flair.”
She encouraged both ladies and gentlemen to think vibrantly for their outfits, and opt for eye-catching colours over the classic black, white or navy.
“[For the ladies], try daring headwear, from oversized hats to fascinators with feathers, summer flowers, or a striking headpiece that links summer to your outfit,” she said.
“Men should opt for contemporary interpretations of the classic summer suit; classic jackets and ties are essential, but instead of a boring black suit, try light grey, beige, a soft light blue or a bold summer colour.”
In addition to the usual age group categories and couple category, this year’s fun category will call for families and friend groups in “matching, co-ordinated and catchy” outfits for a chance at winning the Clan Chaos sash.
Returning judge and Seaview owner Kate Fraser said this was the year to impress, teasing a mystery judge with over three decades of experience in making people look their best.
“We’ve been lucky enough to secure, as a judge, one of the foremost hairstylists in Cairns who has recently retired and moved to Brisbane, but will be returning to Far North Queensland for this year’s Cooktown Races,” she said.
“He attended Fashions on the Field as my guest a couple of years ago, and was super impressed with the calibre of entries.
“Fashions on the Field is not only a great opportunity for race-going fashionistas to showcase their personal style, it’s also a unique platform to showcase Cooktown, its community and its personality through fashion.”
