Off the track, all eyes will be on the preliminary heats of the 2013 Miss Universe® Australia Pageant which kicks off at 12:10pm. Brisbane Racing Club Chief Operating Officer, Darren Condon, said more than 4000 people were expected to attend the event which marks the start of the autumn racing season. “It’s one of our biggest annual race days and it’s not just for the ladies – gentlemen are welcome too,” he said. “It’s a great event to get together with friends, have a fun day out and enjoy some of the fantastic entertainment on offer both on and off the track.” Mr Condon said one of the most popular marquees would be the Skinny Girl Ultimate Girls’ Day Out precinct, where racegoers will be able to indulge in guilt-free cocktails from Skinny Girl. “It’s definitely the best seat in the house and for just $45 racegoers can really treat themselves,” he said. “There will be cocktails at the Hunk Bar, lunch, a pamper marquee and the precinct will be manned by ‘Gentlemen to Help’ who will be armed with band-aids, hairspray and sunscreen.” Stylist, Laura Stead, from The Style Report said style stakes would be high as girls make the transition from summer to autumn racewear. “Racewear is a look unlike anything else in fashion. Matching accessories, flawless grooming and season-appropriate accessories including felt headwear are a must,” she said. “Leather is everywhere this season so take a knee-length leather skirt, pair it with a bold floral jacket and some leather gloves for an up-to-date look that will earn you instant fashion cred. “Always finish with well-chosen accessories including a headpiece in felt, leather or textured materials, not sinamay or straw which are for spring racing.” Ms Stead said suiting for the gents was well and truly grounded in tradition this autumn with grey and black featuring strongly. “You can’t go wrong with well-polished shoes, a stylish watch and a skinny tie or bow tie. Add gloves, a pocket square and a fedora or flat cap to complete the look,” she said. EVENT:            Girls’ Day Out – One of the most popular race days of the year returns to Doomben Racecourse promising a day full of racing fun, fashion and cocktails. WHERE:           Doomben Racecourse, Hampden Street, Ascot. WHEN:                         Gates open at 11am on Saturday, March 23, 2013. COST:              Tickets start at $15 for general admission and $45 for the Skinny Girl Ultimate Girls’ Marquee. INFO:               www.brc.com.au]]>