There was plenty of colour on-course for the 2017 Murray Bridge Gold Cup, marking the start of the Spring Racing season. With some incredible millinery on show, the decision was difficult for the judges, but the competition was taken out by Melissa Barnes.
Melissa - who also won the 2016 Murray Bridge event - is about to head off to Melbourne as the South Australian Finalist of the 2017 Myer Fashions on the Field. A fantastic honour for the Adelaide local, with quite a few years since a South Australian represented the state at the final. She won the Adelaide Cup Day event earlier this year, in this beautiful outfit by local designer Couture+Love+Madness, and millinery she made herself.
A talented milliner to boot, Melissa's well coordinated outfit and eye-catching bag was the winning look for the judges. We speak to Mel ahead of her exciting trip to Melbourne!
To see all of the photos from the 2017 Murray Bridge Gold Cup, head to The Races SA Facebook page.
For work: I am a Mum, retailer assistant, blogger and teacher.
To win Fashions on the Field I wore: a C/MEO Collective dress, Cue top, Tony Bianco shoes and Kate Spade bag.
I started coming to The Races when: I moved from Darwin back to Adelaide
And I couldn't do a day trackside without: something on my head.
The last time I entered Fashions on the Field: at the Balaklava Cup in September.
My wardrobe looks like: a mess, it's always full of unfolded clothes!
The most embarassing thing I've ever worn is: an Abby Cadabby (from Seasame Street) costume for a charity party.
But my favourite thing I own is: my Kate Spade handbags and vintage glove collection.
What people might not know about me: I'm half Italian on my mum's side!
Weekends look like: working most Saturdays and spending time with family.
I love to indulge in: shopping - for anything except groceries!
My kind of day out is: beach, coffee and good company.
On my bucket list I want to: buy a holiday home by the beach.
I wish I could have a glass of bubbles with: Will Ferrell.
This year I am looking forward to: going to the Melbourne Cup Carnival as the South Australian finalist [for Myer Fashions on the Field]
I love The Races because: I learn more about horse racing each time I attend. It's a great day for dressingup and catching up with friends.
Melissa is the fourth qualifying finalist for the 2017/18 competition, with the next opportunity to enter at this Sunday's Gawler Cup.
