The Melbourne Cup Carnival has once again showcased Australia’s biggest stars donning glamorous outfits at Flemington Racecourse. However, not every look has been a success, with some wild and wacky outfits resurfacing during Oaks Day. One such outfit that has come under scrutiny is Bec Hewitt’s 2017 Kennedy Oaks Day ensemble, which was labeled as one of her ‘worst ever’ at the time. The dress from Sass & Bide featured an asymmetric hemline with blue and orange block patterns, which critics deemed a fashion faux pas for the stylish WAG. Bec completed her look with vibrant orange heels, cream acrylic earrings, a thick bracelet, a blush clutch bag, and a large red floral fascinator.
Bec Hewitt has a history of making headlines with her quirky ensembles at the Melbourne Cup Carnival. In 2006, she raised eyebrows by wearing a unique top resembling a boob tube along with white bike shorts, violating the event’s dress code and misinterpreting the theme of the day. Although Bec has been a regular attendee at the prestigious horse racing event over the years, she was not present at the 2024 Melbourne Cup Carnival. Other notable names spotted at The Birdcage this year include Nadia Bartel, Rebecca Judd, Samantha Armytage, Sylvia Jeffreys, Elizabeth Hurley, and Nicky Hilton, who have all added glamour to the week-long racing spectacular.
International celebrity Elizabeth Hurley attended the Melbourne Cup Carnival alongside her son Damian, describing her return to Australia as ‘bittersweet’ following the death of her ex-fiancé Shane Warne. Elizabeth and Shane began dating in 2010, got engaged in 2011, but split in 2013. Despite their breakup, they remained good friends, with Shane referring to their relationship as the ‘happiest time of his life.’ Shane tragically passed away of a heart attack in 2022 while staying at a luxury villa in Koh Samui, Thailand. Elizabeth and Damian’s presence at the Melbourne Cup Carnival added star power to the event.
The Melbourne Cup Carnival continues to attract top celebrities, showcasing their fashion sense and style at one of Australia’s most prestigious events. While many attendees dazzle in elegant and sophisticated outfits, there are instances where the fashion choices miss the mark and attract criticism. Bec Hewitt’s 2017 Oaks Day outfit and her past ensembles have garnered mixed reviews from critics and fashion enthusiasts. Despite the occasional faux pas, the event remains a highlight on the social calendar for celebrities and racing aficionados alike, providing a platform for stars to showcase their individuality and creativity through fashion.
The Melbourne Cup Carnival remains a highly anticipated event for fashion lovers and racing enthusiasts, with attendees donning eye-catching ensembles year after year. While some outfits receive praise and admiration, others, like Bec Hewitt’s 2017 Oaks Day outfit, have faced criticism for not meeting fashion standards. As the event attracts international names like Elizabeth Hurley, Damian Hurley, and Nicky Hilton, it continues to be a symbol of glamour and sophistication. Despite occasional fashion missteps, the Melbourne Cup Carnival remains a staple on the social calendar, allowing attendees to express their unique style and make bold fashion statements on the racecourse.
