January 7 marked the second day of the Kolkata Winter Meeting 2023-24 at the Royal Calcutta Turf Club, featuring the highly anticipated Derby Stakes. The event was not only about horse racing, it showcased a dazzling array of high fashion — from elegant hats and bags to stylish heels and shades, from classic silhouettes to Gen-Z picks
All photos by Amit Datta
Jasmine Bala (in picture), a regular at the race course since the age of six, adorned an all-black ensemble — a skirt-and-jacket look with sheer stockings and ankle boots — with a vibrant printed scarf as her statement piece.“The Derby day is special with horses from across India and significant prize money,” she said about the day’s races
Men at the Derby Stakes exhibited sartorial flair, donning tailored suits, sophisticated ties, and polished shoes, showcasing a refined and classic approach to race-day fashion. Some attendees took it a notch higher, introducing bold pieces that added a touch of contemporary style to the traditional race day attire, while others got the smart casuals memo right
Entrepreneur, designer, and lawyer Susan Mantosh, has a deep connection with the club and racing, and curated her outfit in a day. Her black kaftan-dress with a stand-out print of a golden horse, was complemented by a horse-shaped purse, a sparkling hat and gloves. The standout piece, however, was her charm necklace, which featured vintage badges collected over the years, each holding sentimental value as they were awarded to club members decades ago
Courtesy: Jaimin Rajani
The race day showcased a splendid array of caps and hats, with some enthusiasts opting for high-end luxury brands like Dior and Louis Vuitton. These extravagant accessories not only added a touch of opulence to the attire but also underscored the intersection of high fashion and equestrian elegance at the event
Chic shades and fancy sunglasses were a prevalent fashion statement at the event, accentuating the attendees’ flair for style. From classic aviators to trendy oversized frames, the race day saw a diverse display of eyewear choices, blending fashion with practicality under the radiant winter sun
While spectators showcased their best fits, the steeds were not to be left behind. Equestrian fashion also took centre stage as the majestic equine athletes donned sleek, custom-designed racing gear, complementing the elegance of the Derby Stakes with their adorned saddles and distinctive coats
