Celebrities and punters have braved the showers to make their way to Flemington Racecourse as Derby Day kicks off all the excitement of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
There was a gasp and a collective lurch of stomachs as supermodel Helena Christensen almost dropped the Melbourne Cup.
“Just kidding”, Christensen laughed with a naughty twinkle in her eye, as everyone let out their breath, before posing for an exclusive Herald Sun photo shoot.
Ever the professional, she wanted to lighten the mood because the Melbourne Cup trophy is worth $1.4m and has its own security and team, not to mention heavy schedule.
The Danish beauty, part of what is known as the “Magnificent 7” 90s original supermodels, is the real deal.
In high spirits, Christensen, 57, was soaking up the atmosphere inside the Landmark by Lexus pavilion wearing a custom off-shoulder midi dress in black, cream, ivory and silver metallic tweed from her good friend, Ballarat-born designer Rebecca Vallance.
Drawing on deconstructed tailoring, the design featured a sculpted neckline with tailored lapel detailing, a streamlined pencil silhouette and diamanté buttons, paired with a Nerida Winter headpiece.
Vallance is making a habit of bringing her celebrity superstar friends to the track, wowing a few years back with doppelgänger and then collection collaborator Nicky Hilton.
Wearing a bespoke ivory bonded-crepe design, featuring a structured architectural cape with a refined stand collar, midi skirt and delicate lace appliqué detailing, Vallance and Christensen were the picture perfect pair.
Christensen, whose influence has spanned decades in the international fashion industry, has been a longstanding supporter of Vallance.
“Helena has such an incredible sense of personal style, and it’s been a real pleasure creating something especially for her,” Vallance said.
“She’s a dear friend, so sharing this moment together makes it even more special.
“I’ve always loved the elegance and tradition of Derby Day, and our partnership with Lexus has given us a wonderful opportunity to bring our design vision to the occasion.
“I’m so proud of what we’ve created, from our bespoke looks to the wider Landmark experience.”
Forget the horses, Vallance and Christensen were the Derby Day quinella right there.
Dalins coming in white hot
Annalise Dalins is particularly fond of wearing white as she prepares for a big Derby Day and her November wedding.
Life is good for the model fiancee of Collingwood star Josh Daicos who will step out in style for the traditional day of black and white colours to kick off the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington.
“I honestly can’t believe we’re this close, it’s such an exciting time, and what better way to celebrate one of my final events before the wedding than Derby Day with Crown,’’ Dalins said.
“I love the fashion, the atmosphere and the entire experience. It’s actually lovely to take a little break from planning and enjoy the Crown experience this weekend.”
Dalins didn’t take a backward step when she met the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott trained Derby hopeful Cold Shower. The Howden Victoria Derby over 2500m is Australia’s oldest classic, in its 175th running.
Styled by Paul Versace of Styled by Bloom, Dalins wore a white Effie Kats gown with a black Embellish Atelier hat.
The future Mrs Daicos celebrated her hen’s party in Sorrento last weekend and will take her future sister-in-law, Maddie Daicos, to the Crown Marmont marquee.
“It’s such an iconic day on Melbourne’s calendar,’’ she said.
“I love the timeless black and white fashion, and after so many years of making beautiful memories with Crown, it feels extra special to now be celebrating as an ambassador.
“For me the preparation is half the fun. I certainly don’t wake up looking like this haha.
“I’m so lucky to work with such talented creatives across my outfit, millinery, hair and makeup.
“I think (horses are) such beautiful, majestic animals. I’m definitely no expert, but I have so much admiration for them and love the tradition and atmosphere surrounding the racing carnival.”
Pop star Jess Glynne will perform at The Elms Live Stage after the last race of the nine race card, highlighted by three group 1 features.
A huge line-up of VIP guests will hit the track, including supermodel Helena Christensen, Rebecca Harding and Andy Lee, Bec and Chris Judd, Nick Daicos, Carrie Bickmore, Tammy Hembrow, Lachie Neale and Emma Field, Jai Courtney, Rozalia and Nick Russian, Pip Edwards and more.