Fashion and passion shine at the return of Fashions on the Field in autumn

Layce Vocale’s winning moment

For engineer Layce Vocale, winning Best Dressed was the culmination of a lifelong love affair with racing and style. Growing up on a dairy farm, she would sit in the local pub with her father, watching Fashions on the Field unfold before the races began. The VRC member has been competing since 2018, coming close on multiple occasions – but this autumn, her moment arrived.

Her outfit came together in just four weeks after hearing the announcement that FOTF would return to Australian Cup Day. A black skirt she had been unsure about suddenly made sense when she spotted a champagne-gold top in a shop window, its fabric catching the light perfectly. “I thought, that’s it!” she said. She added her own touch by draping the silk scarf loosely around her neck instead of tying it.

Millinery was the final piece of the puzzle – when her original hat broke the night before the event, she opted for a Dior-inspired black brim piece by Catherine Storm. The bold design played beautifully into the French and oriental influences of her outfit, complemented by gold jewellery that complemented the champagne tones of her top.

“Fashions on the Field is my creative space,” Vocale said. “It’s fun, it’s an outlet, and the community is incredible. The kindness, encouragement, and strong competition push me to keep evolving my style.”

With her Crown Oaks Day final spot secured, she’s looking forward to a relaxed Cup Week, free to enjoy the races and focus on creating her ultimate Oaks Day look.

A decade-long journey for Cass Pisarskis

After 10 years of dedication to Fashions on the Field, Cass Pisarskis also finally had her winning moment, taking out the Best Suited category on TAB Australian Cup Day. A VRC member, public servant, and mother of two, Pisarskis fell in love with autumn fashion while living in London and was thrilled to see FOTF return to the autumn racing calendar.

“There aren’t many opportunities to showcase textures, rich colours, and layering,” she said. “Autumn racing fashion deserves its moment.”

Pisarskis created a custom tartan kilt, sourcing the fabric from Scotland and working with Lainie Brookman Couture to bring the skirt to life. Specialty Pleaters in Melbourne completed the intricate pleating. She paired it with a Karen Millen double-breasted black blazer with gold button details and a crisp white shirt. Thoughtful gold accents – including a leaf brooch, draped chain, and a traditional kilt pin – tied the look together. A Moore Millinery Designs button-style headpiece and a matching round clutch completed her polished ensemble.

“Sourcing and styling outfits is a process I love,” she said. Sometimes, it takes years to develop a look, but that’s what makes it special – working with artisans and specialists who are masters of their craft.”

A strong advocate for sustainability, Pisarskis believes in re-wearing and re-styling pieces rather than chasing fast fashion trends. In fact, her winning kilt was making its second appearance and will continue to be a wardrobe staple. “I’ll wear it again – even to work! It’s all about investing in quality pieces and making them feel fresh each time.”

Beyond the competition, Pisarskis treasures the friendships and sense of community that FOTF has given her. “I’m so thankful for the women supporting women in this space,” she said.