Prepare to be stunned: The Lexus Melbourne Cup 2025 has officially begun, and the fashion stakes are higher than ever! But here’s where it gets controversial—while some outfits are being hailed as iconic, others are sparking heated debates. Let’s dive into the jaw-dropping looks that have everyone talking.
First up, 19-year-old Aussie-Balinese model Stella Klim turned heads in a custom Atoir gown that left little to the imagination. The dress, in a classic Cup Day hue, featured a daring back cut-out adorned with statement pins and a bust-baring neckline held together by dramatic hardware. And this is the part most people miss—it also flashed a cheeky glimpse of side-boob, leaving fans in awe. Reactions poured in, with one fan exclaiming, ‘Oh my God,’ while others called the look ‘unreal’ and ‘breathtaking.’ But is it too bold for the races? We’ll let you decide.
Meanwhile, Brooke Warne, daughter of late cricket legend Shane Warne, opted for an on-trend lemon halterneck dress by Forever New, paired with red accessories. Her spring-ready look was praised as ‘stunning’ and ‘gorgeous,’ but some might argue it’s too safe for such a high-profile event. What do you think—did she play it too cool?
Hannah Dal Sasso, former partner of tennis star Thanasi Kokkinakis, took a risk in a revealing midi-dress by Tulle Addict, complete with slashes throughout the skirt. Paired with a silver clutch and a pillbox hat, her look was undeniably adventurous. But here’s the twist: she later shared a video dancing to a song titled ‘Where’s My Husband,’ sparking speculation it was a subtle jab at her ex. Is it a bold statement or just a coincidence? You be the judge.
AFL star Ivan Soldo and his influencer girlfriend, Chelsea Becirevic, coordinated in red, with Becirevic dubbed ‘Australia’s hottest WAG’ in an off-the-shoulder dress featuring a thigh-high split. Samantha Armytage, host of The Golden Bachelor, also embraced the classic Cup Day red in a chic ensemble. But is matching your partner too cliché, or is it a stylish power move?
Racing royalty Kate Waterhouse stunned in a custom Alin Le’ Kal gown with a plunging neckline, while Jules Robinson went bold in a lolly-wrapper-inspired strapless dress. Melbourne influencer Rozalia Russian graced the Birdcage in a custom Steven Khalil design, and former MAFS star Evelyn Ellis turned heads in a turquoise peplum dress by Ryan Patros. But here’s the real question—with so many daring looks, who truly stole the show?
Let’s not forget the drama from last year, when Nadia Bartel’s ice blue Lillian Khallouf mini-dress divided opinions. While some called it ‘sensational,’ others criticized it as ‘too short for the races.’ Is there a line between bold and inappropriate? Weigh in below!
From Stella Klim’s daring gown to Brooke Warne’s understated elegance, this year’s Melbourne Cup has it all. But with fashion this fierce, one thing’s for sure: the racetrack isn’t the only place where the action’s happening. What’s your take on these looks? Are they race-day ready, or do they cross the line? Let the debate begin!
