The Lexus Melbourne Cup 2025 has officially begun, and the fashion stakes are as high as the horse racing itself. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some outfits are celebrated, others spark heated debates. Let’s dive into the jaw-dropping looks that have everyone talking—and trust me, you won’t want to miss this! Stella Klim, the 19-year-old Aussie-Balinese model, stole the show in a custom Atoir gown that left fans gasping. With a daring back cut-out adorned with statement pins and a bust-baring neckline, her ensemble was nothing short of bold. One fan exclaimed, ‘Oh my God,’ while others hailed it as ‘unreal’ and ‘breathtaking.’ But is it too daring for the races? That’s where opinions divide. And this is the part most people miss: the subtle side-boob glimpse that added an extra layer of edge to her look. Meanwhile, Brooke Warne, daughter of cricket legend Shane Warne, opted for a more classic approach with a lemon Forever New halterneck dress paired with red accessories. Her spring-ready outfit earned praise, but is it too safe for such a high-profile event? Here’s a thought-provoking question: Can fashion ever truly strike the perfect balance between bold and appropriate? Hannah Dal Sasso, former partner of tennis star Thanasi Kokkinakis, turned heads in a revealing Tulle Addict midi-dress with slashes throughout the skirt. Paired with a silver clutch and a pillbox hat, her look was undeniably adventurous. But her social media antics—dancing to a song titled ‘Where’s My Husband’—have sparked speculation about her ex. Is it a subtle dig or just a coincidence? AFL star Ivan Soldo and his influencer girlfriend, Chelsea Becirevic, went for a coordinated look with matching red tones. Becirevic’s off-the-shoulder dress with a thigh-high split was a risky move, but did it pay off? Samantha Armytage, host of The Golden Bachelor, and her co-star Bear Myrden also made appearances, with Armytage rocking a classic red ensemble. Allison Langdon, host of A Current Affair, channeled her inner cowgirl in a blue mini-dress with fringe detailing and a black rodeo hat. Is this a fresh take or a fashion misstep? 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. Rozalia Russian, Melbourne influencer, posed in a custom Steven Kahlil design inside the prestigious Birdcage. Evelyn Ellis, former MAFS star, chose a turquoise peplum dress by Ryan Patros, paired with a matching headpiece. Moraya Wilson, former Miss Universe Australia, arrived in a sheer pale blue dress with a backless panel and cape—a look that was both ethereal and daring. But let’s not forget last year’s controversy: Nadia Bartel faced criticism for her ice blue Lillian Khallouf mini-dress, deemed ‘too short’ by some. Is there a line in race day fashion, and if so, where do we draw it? What do you think? Are these outfits boundary-pushing masterpieces or fashion faux pas? Let’s spark a conversation in the comments—I’m eager to hear your take!
