Ladies Day! Glamorous racegoers let hair loose and party hard as Spring Racing Carnival kicks off

Oaks Day celebrations in Melbourne are in full swing with racegoers letting their hair down as the Spring Racing Carnival rolls on.

It’s not hard to see why it’s colloquially known as Ladies Day, with thousands of women attending the event in glamorous party outfits as they soak up the sun and enjoy a glass of champagne with friends.

Flemington Racecourse welcomed about 70,000 guests on Thursday, all of whom seem to have recovered from their Melbourne Cup celebrations remarkably well.

Many guests relaxed on the grass while sipping on iced drinks in the heat as they awaited the next race

All sparkles! Oaks Day celebrations are in full swing as racegoers let their hair down forthe Spring Racing Carnival

It’s not hard to see why the event is nicknamed Ladies Day as attendees are seen smiling in glamorous party outfits

Accessories took centre stage with many attendees sporting intricate floral headpieces and immaculately styled hair

Described by the organisers as a day of ‘beauty, femininity, style and grace’, Oaks Day is known for being an afternoon during which racegoers can embrace ‘wonderment’ and escape normality.

A range of styles were on show, from floral chic to elegant bold shades and fully sequined sparkles.

Accessories took centre stage with many attendees sporting intricate fascinators of flowers and feathers.

The weather was a little kinder to racegoers compared to Tuesday’s downpour, with the sun shining for the majority of the day.

 Some racegoers oped for stylish metallic heels to complete their look on a day blessed with fine weather

Flower power! Some punters opted for bold animal-print designs with enormous statement headwear 

Star jockey and previous winner of the Melbourne Cup, Michelle Payne, also took a sartorial risk and opted for a tutti frutti pleated dress in the unique shades of canary yellow and tangerine.

She later raced in the Kennedy Oaks and placed third.

Superstar mare Arisita, ridden by Damian Lane, won the $1million race.

A range of styles were seen on the day, from floral fairytale chic to elegant bold shades – but sunglasses were a must-have

 Attendees were seen lounging on the grass with friends, treating themselves to food and drinks while enjoying the sunshine

Racegoers kicked off their shoes and took advantage of the opportunity to spend a weekday in the sunshine with friends

About 70,000 people were in attendance for Thursday’s day at the races with many more expected to turn out for Stakes Day