Age is just a number, and 41-year-old Kate Waterhouse proved it by stealing the show at Stakes Day! The final day of the Melbourne Cup carnival, known as TAB Champions Stakes Day, arrived with a vibrant 'garden party' theme, encouraging fun and bold prints. And the fashion did not disappoint!
Kate Waterhouse, daughter of renowned racehorse trainer Gai Waterhouse AO, closed out the carnival with a bang. Her satin green dress, accented with delicate lace trimming on the sleeves and paired with a forest green hat, left fans raving. One admirer aptly commented that she ‘always brings the glam’ and was undeniably ‘gorgeous’.
But here's where it gets interesting: while Waterhouse opted for classic elegance, the day was a kaleidoscope of styles. Host Elle Ray (aka Ella Rayias) channeled a playful vibe in a white plissé dress adorned with black polka dots and a tiered silhouette. She later interviewed former tennis star Jelena Dokic, whose fashion choices have been turning heads all racing season.
And this is the part most people miss: the event wasn't just about the big names. Diver Anabelle Smith brought retro charm in a mini-dress with long sleeves and a floral hem, while Olympic swimmer Ariarne Titmus stunned in a strapless icy blue dress featuring a bold, hidden pattern. She accessorized with a simple silver handbag and a delicate wrist chain, proving that sometimes less is more.
The fashion spectrum continued with 3AW radio personality Jacqueline Felgate's demure monochromatic ensemble, featuring an oversized double-breasted blazer with gold accents that perfectly matched her earrings and handbag. Melbourne model Bella Henry, partner of AFL star Bailey Scott, injected a much-needed burst of color with her strapless blood orange dress, fiery headpiece, and the day's most unique accessory – a gold ramshorn shell handbag. Even the rain couldn't dampen her spirits!
The fashion parade continued with content creator Hannah McKnight's bold red halter-neck dress that shimmered under the lights, and model Emily Ryan-King's ballerina-esque lemon dress with a structured skirt. Victoria Racing CEO Kylie Rogers opted for a soft baby pink dress with a knotted front detail and a blue hat, while Chantelle Ford, creative director of Ford Millinery and Ford Bridal, made a statement in a sheer black dress adorned with green lily pads, layered over a white blouse and paired with gold shoes. Lauren Reizer embraced a high-neck, bright-colored dress with bell sleeves, and influencer Georgia Hayes, a VIP guest of G.H. Mumm, matched her bold red dress with a coordinating hat. She attended with Mimi Hoyle, and TV presenter Brodie Harper, pictured with Health Meldrum, also joined the red dress trend for the carnival's finale.
Stakes Day wasn't just about the races; it was a celebration of style, individuality, and the enduring allure of the Melbourne Cup carnival. What was your favorite look from the day? Do you think the 'garden party' theme was a success? Let us know in the comments!
