Master milliner Jo-Anne Rolfe said things were getting a little frantic in the lead-up to the city’s biggest social event, but there were some simple rules to remember.

“Go with your winter fabrics,” Ms Rolfe said.

“Things like felt, leather, velvet… navy (blue) and lace are in fashion, also burgundy.

“Younger ladies are going for a headband, while the more conservative are still looking for a proper hat.”

Whether the style-conscious were splurging on an all-new outfit or simply updating an older one, hats were an easy way to “jazz up” a look.

Marketplace hat stand worker Rebecca Hillis said people were really looking forward to the chance to get a little fancy. 

“People are really getting into it and dressing up for the races,” Rebecca Hillis said.

“It’s a day to be more stately.”

For the gentlemen, a trilby or fedora hat were the best way to dress up a lounge suit, but “there’s nothing wrong with an Akubra either,” according to Ms Rolfe.