The clothes that maketh the man

ALTHOUGH the fashion stakes are not as high in men's fashion as it is for women, a little effort in outward appearances can never go astray at Mount Gambier's premier racing event.

Whether you're there to watch the fillies on the field, or there just to check out the fillies trackside, the latest styles and trends from the capital cities have made their way to the humble Gold Cup.

On the casual front, it's out with the navy singlet and stubbie shorts and in with collared shirts and slacks.

For those not into ties, open shirts and polos are big and layering T-shirts over long sleeves is still in fashion.

Bold style is all the rage this year, with abstract prints and designs adding that extra flavour to an otherwise plain shirt.

Be daring with colour selection. Although black is always in, experiment with natural and earthy colours, from greys and creams to pinks and greens, which suit the season.

In terms of leg wear, you can't go wrong with straight slacks or cargos, although your "old favourite" jeans can always be dressed up with a nice shirt combination.

Being Mount Gambier, you'll need to keep toasty warm so a simple zip-through jacket can make all the difference, worn open or closed, and for the ultimate in warmth, polar fleece is still in.

No matter how cold it gets, the trusty flanny should be left to the lumberjacks.

For the more distinguished gentleman, there's the Cary Grant-look of stylish sophistication in a well-made suit.

You don't have to go overboard with a James Bond-esque tuxedo, but a simple two-piece suit can still give you a licence to kill with the ladies.

Pin stripes are back in a big way, but not just in black and white. Black, brown, grey and navy suits can now even come with stripes in chocolate and maroon.

Look sharp in a shirt and tie combo, using bright colours to attract the attention of the fairer sex and stripes or checks to add a bit of spice.

If you're not into colour coordination from head to toe, a simple wool or leather sports jacket in black, brown or grey would pair well with smart cords or chinos.

To keep out the cold, a three-quarter or full-length overcoat in black, grey or brown would complement a suit well.

And no matter how cool you think you are, no-one can get away with the retro-70s frilly-shirt look so don't even try.