The Eighth Letter is a South Australian owned fashion house based in Lucindale in the State’s south east region. Outfits from The Eighth Letter regularly make appearances at Fashion at the Races competition throughout the region. The label is stocked in retail stores across Australia including the concept store in Robe. Their aim is to emphasize distinctiveness and individuality through fabrics, textures and striking prints. Always working with a variety of textiles and tactile products - linens, cottons, wool, leathers, and hides - making each collection unique.
The Eighth Letter’s focus is to design versatile, comfortable & stylish pieces that can be styled in the most effortless way.
With an eye for detail and a strong understanding of the prevailing fashion trends, Hayley has built this business to provide stunning outfits and beautiful styles to the region and beyond. Hayley shared her thoughts about the fashion at this weekend’s Naracoorte Cup, with some helpful tips for the Fashion at the Races competition!
What styles should be the focus for the Naracoorte Cup?
The weather forecast for this weekend in Naracoorte is ideal for a day at the races. First and foremost, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Being a summer race meet I am predicting, for the ladies, printed or solid matching sets (skirts or pants with matching tops) & floral midi dresses in breathable summer fabrics such as linen and silk will be a focus. Men, aim for a smart-causal look such as chinos teamed with a button-down shirt in a light linen or add a touch of flair with a printed shirt or tie.
What colours/tones/shades should be featured in this season’s styles?
Bold, fun and bright colours are on trend this summer. Classic black and white is always sophisticated & timeless but I think with ‘Dopamine dressing’ taking over our wardrobes this season, bright colours combined with cheerful motifs and prints and colour blocking will be featured in this season country Cup Day. It’s all about having fun and exploring your unique sense of style & personality whilst feeling confident and of course comfort is key.
What is your go to simple style tip to make an outfit standout?
One of the easiest ways to make your outfit stand out at a race meet is by adding accessories. This could be a headpiece, crown, fascinator, eye-catching bag or statement earring. Adding accessories doesn’t have to be hard, if a crown or fascinator isn’t your style, get creative with staples you have in your wardrobe, like a head scarf, which can be styled in multiple ways or a simple hat. A Panama or boater hat or even an Akubra (we all have one of them in the country right), can make your entire outfit look more exciting & polished. My personal favourite are sunglasses. I love seeing race goers that rock a pop coloured frame, whether it’s an oversize style or retro tres chic style, it’s another way to reflect your personal fashion sense and self-expression. By switching up eyewear or accessories you can change the whole vibe of your outfit in seconds.
Do you have any thoughts on what style trends will be in for Autumn 2023?
Layering will be a necessity again this autumn/winter. Matching sets will still be on trend but with textural contrasts & a wintery spin. Neutral, earthy, calm, classic tones with injections of contrasting, exuberant colours like magenta & cobalt. After the popularity of cut-outs this season, I think autumn we will see this replaced with sheer fabrics – romantic and lacey. As for footwear, with the return of the ‘Revenge Heel’ post-lockdown I’m also expecting to see platform heels a hit in 2023.
See more styles from The Eighth Letter on their social media!
Get your tickets for this Sunday’s Naracoorte Cup via Moshtix.
Check out some of the outfits that The Eighth Letter has created on display at country race days.
