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. But here's where it gets even more fascinating: the fashion choices of the day were nothing short of spectacular, leaving everyone in awe.
Kate Waterhouse, the daughter of renowned thoroughbred racehorse trainer Gai Waterhouse AO, did not hold back for her final appearance at the carnival. She graced the event in a satin green dress, elegantly trimmed with lace on the sleeves, paired with a forest green hat. One admirer couldn’t help but gush, calling her ‘always glamorous’ and ‘absolutely gorgeous.’ And this is the part most people miss—her ability to consistently bring sophistication and style to every event.
Host extraordinaire Elle Ray, whose real name is Ella Rayias, chose a white plissé dress adorned with black polka dots for the occasion. The dress, featuring spaghetti straps and a tiered silhouette, was a perfect blend of playful and chic. Elle also interviewed former tennis star Jelena Dokic, who has been turning heads all racing season with her impeccable style. But here's a thought: does the pressure to dress impeccably at such events ever get overwhelming for these celebrities?
Diver Anabelle Smith, a guest at the G.H.MUMM Birdcage, opted for a retro mini-dress with long sleeves and a floral hem. Meanwhile, former Australian Olympic swimmer Ariarne Titmus, 25, wore a strapless icy blue dress with a bold pattern embedded deep in the fabric. She accessorized with a simple silver handbag and a delicate chain around her wrist. But here's where it gets controversial: while some praised her choice, others felt the pattern was too daring for the event. What do you think?
3AW radio personality Jacqueline Felgate took a more subdued approach, donning an oversized double-breasted blazer and an ankle-length skirt in a monochromatic shade. Her outfit was elevated by gold accents on the blazer, matching her earrings and handbag handle. Melbourne model Bella Henry, partner of AFL star Bailey Scott, brought a much-needed splash of color with her strapless blood-orange dress, fiery headpiece, and a unique gold ramshorn shell handbag. Not even the rain could dampen her spirits—a true testament to her confidence and style.
Bella entered the event alongside content creator Hannah McKnight and model Emily Ryan-King. McKnight chose a bold red halter-neck dress that shimmered under the lights, while Ryan-King resembled a ballerina in her strapless lemon dress with a structured skirt. Kylie Rogers, CEO of Victoria Racing, posed in a baby pink dress with a knotted front design and a blue hat. Chantelle Ford, creative director of Ford Millinery and Ford Bridal, wore a sheer black dress with green lily pads, layered over a white blouse, and paired with gold shoes.
Lauren Reizer opted for a high-neck dress in a bright color, featuring bell sleeves, while influencer Georgia Hayes, a VIP guest of G.H. Mumm, wore a bold red dress with a matching hat. She attended with Mimi Hoyle, and TV presenter Brodie Harper, pictured with Heath Meldrum, also chose a bright red frock for the final day. But here's the question: with so many stunning outfits, who do you think truly stole the show? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
