Spring Racing: Your guide to race-day in Camberwell Junction

Spring racing season is back, and so is one of Melbourne’s favourite excuses to get dressed up, gather with friends and enjoy the season.

Whatever your plans, if you’re heading trackside, hosting a race-day gathering at home, or simply embracing Cup Week as an excuse to enjoy a long lunch or night out, Camberwell Junction has everything you need to make the most of the occasion.

Race-day style for 2026: Refined, polished and individual

This year, race-day dressing is taking a more refined approach. Expect elegant silhouettes, polished separates and dresses that you’ll want to wear long after the final race has been run.

Rather than following every trend at once, 2026 is about finding a look that feels distinctly you. Colour, timeless prints and carefully chosen accessories can bring personality to a polished outfit, while classic pieces give you plenty of opportunities to rewear after cup day.

Polka dots and other timeless prints are making their way back into the spring racing wardrobe, alongside considered tailoring, feminine dresses and sophisticated separates.

Find your pick at any of our fashion retailers in Camberwell Junction Blue Illusion, Country Road, Carolina Lifestyle, Silvermaple Boutique, Stanley & Stone and Seed,

The finishing touches are just as important. Add personality with statement or delicate jewellery from Stephens & Miller Jewellers and Allure Accessories and choose items that complement rather than compete with your outfit.

View the full range of fashion stores in our directory.

Hats are back: Make millinery your finishing touch

If there’s one race-day accessory having a moment in 2026, it’s the hat.

Trend predictions say headbands are stepping aside, and traditional millinery is reclaiming its place on the race-day style scene. A beautiful hat or headpiece can completely transform a simple dress or tailored look, so make it part of the outfit from the beginning rather than an afterthought.

Pair your millinery with jewellery, sunglasses or a beautifully chosen bag for a look that feels considered from head to toe.

Shoes that can keep up with the day

Race day can mean hours on your feet, so the perfect shoe needs to balance style and comfort.

Flats, lower heels and supportive styles can all work beautifully with a polished race-day outfit, particularly when you’re likely to be walking, standing or spending time outdoors.

Explore the line-ups at Midas, Mountfords, Step Ahead Shoes and Frankie4 Footwear to find a pair that will see you comfortably through the celebrations.

Race-day menswear: Smart, relaxed and polished

For men, race-day dressing doesn’t have to feel overly formal.

Spring-weight tailoring, crisp shirts, smart separates and well-chosen accessories create a polished look that still feels relaxed enough for a day of celebrations.

Find race-ready pieces at GAZMAN, Sportscraft, Cavalier Menswear and Country Road.

The key is to keep everything sharp, comfortable and suited to the occasion.

Race-week beauty: Get ready from head to toe

A great race-day look starts well before you put on your outfit.

Make time for self-care with a facial or treatment at Prime Cosmetic Clinic, or a relaxing treatment at Endota Spa.

Beauty and Bronze can help with a fresh, sun-kissed glow, while Heads of Camberwell has your hair sorted.

Don’t forget the details, either. A manicure, pedicure or brow appointment can be the final step in pulling your whole look together.

And for the gentlemen, a fresh cut, beard tidy-up, or hot towel shave is an easy way to sharpen up before the big day. Visit Barbers On Burke or Mayhem Barbers for some pre-cup grooming.

Hosting the races at home? Make it a celebration

You don’t need a ticket to Flemington to enjoy spring racing.

A gathering at home can be just as much fun: anything from a long, relaxed lunch to an afternoon grazing table or a barbecue with friends.

Start with fresh produce from the Camberwell Fresh Food Market, then pick up everything you need for a generous spread from Nick & Sue’s Gourmet Deli, Fish Pier, Camberwell Butchery and Coltivare.

For snacks, nibbles and pantry essentials, The Source Bulk Foods is another handy stop.

Keep the menu simple and generous with fresh salads, seafood, quality meats, cheese, seasonal fruit and plenty of nibbly bits guests can help themselves to.

Set the table for spring

If you’re hosting, don’t forget that the table is part of the occasion too.

Bring some spring colour to your entertaining with beautiful glassware, serving pieces, platters and table linen. A few thoughtful details can make even a casual gathering feel like a special occasion.

Find entertaining and homewares inspiration at Minimax, Wheel&Barrow, Bed Bath N’ Table and Provincial Home Living.

You don’t need to create a perfectly coordinated table – mixing colour, texture and favourite pieces can make your setting feel more personal and inviting.

Keep the celebrations going in Camberwell Junction

Not heading to the track? Or are you looking for somewhere to keep the celebrations going after the last race?

Camberwell Junction has plenty of options for a relaxed drink, dinner or catch-up with friends.

Settle in for a glass of wine and a chat at East End Wine Bar or Young’s Wine Rooms, Mongkok Tea House, or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at La Cabra, Palace Hotel or Bar None.

If the Melbourne weather decides to come to the party, the beer garden at Paradiso Bar & Grill is another great spot to settle in and make the most of spring.

If you’re dressing up for the track, gathering around the TV with friends or simply looking for an excuse to celebrate spring, make Camberwell Junction your starting point for the season.