Style and Fashion On The Royal Randwick Turf

As The Everest approaches at Randwick, who better to ask about race-day apparel than Jaimee Belle Kennedy – from luxury watch and jewellery retailer, Kennedy – and wife of Everest slot holder and Kennedy Executive Chairman, James Kennedy.

Lauded by many in the fashion industry as “Australia’s most stylish woman,” how does Jaimee Belle treat the title?

“It’s incredibly flattering to be called stylish, as I really only dress for me and what I love

wearing,” Jaimee Belle said. “If other people love it too, then that’s very exciting. It’s what fashion is all about.”

And style is the name of the game at the racetrack on big spring race days when it’s time to come out and play after many a cold winter’s day. The Everest and the Sydney Spring Carnival surrounding are no different.

For race day outfitting, Jaimee Belle says she builds from a “favourite piece.”

“It might be a handbag, hat, or the dress itself – then I build the outfit from there,” she said. “I really enjoy planning my outfits, it’s such a therapeutic process, to have that creative ‘me’ time to myself.”

From there?

“When it comes to spring racing, I like the outfit to be the star,” she responded. “If you’re wearing a statement headpiece, you want your jewellery to tie in.

“Kennedy has some exquisite jewellery, perfect for race day, including the Roberto Coin Princess bangle, featuring handset jewels and a floral motif— and the Suzanne Kalan 18-karat gold Fireworks necklace, with an eye-catching sapphire cascade.”

The Kennedy family knows a thing or two about high-end watches, and Jaimee Belle says a timepiece should be more than an afterthought on your wrist.

“A classic watch goes hand-in-hand with racewear,” she said. “My favourite pieces are feminine, yet bold and eye-catching. I love the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso collection, particularly the Classic Duetto. It’s like having two watches in one and takes you from day to night in style.

“The Piaget Limelight Gala watch is truly a work of art. It’s asymmetrical style and diamonds

make it more designer jewel than a timepiece. The Panerai Luminor Due is a modern take on one of this designer’s most iconic timepieces. This classic watch is the perfect addition to a tailored race day outfit. “

Jaimee Belle says trackside fashion can be fun, no matter what your age. 

“For a more mature woman, I would suggest a tailored suit in a colour that compliments them,” she said.

“I’d pair that with a wide-brim hat, and tie it together with elegant accessories, perhaps pearls and a classic timepiece. Anything goes with fashion, especially as we come out of two years of COVID.

“People want to get out and have fun. For a woman 40 plus, I think go all-out with a bold, elegant maxi dress. Have fun with your headwear, but choose something that you feel comfortable in. There are so many options now, from a statement hat to adorned headbands and petite fascinators.

“At 20, it’s time to experiment with fashion. Dresses with big sleeves are very on-trend this year,

teamed with hair styled with a big bow or fresh flowers. Don’t be afraid to be colourful – it is

spring after all!”

Not only will Jaimee Belle be putting forth her race-day best for The Everest, but her husband is a slot holder in the A$15 million, 1,200-meter sprint. James secured a deal for Darby’s Overpass to fill his slot in the Everest.

“For James to be a slot holder in the race adds an extra element of excitement,” she said. “Nothing beats the feeling of watching the horses come flying down the home straight, and the adrenaline that goes along with that. You can feel the collective excitement around you as everyone cheers for their horse.”

After missing last year’s running because of COVID-19 restrictions Jaimee Belle said it’s time to head back.

“The Everest is such an exciting race, because of the prize money on offer and the calibre of

horses,” she said. “Royal Randwick is such a beautiful track. We couldn’t be there in person last year because of the pandemic, so I can’t wait to be there and be part of the atmosphere!”