fashion n trends

Fashion is very big business in Dubai. This is, after all, the town that made a festival from shopping. From home-grown designers making their mark on the world stage to international big hitters clamouring for retail space, the emirate is bucking the trend and flourishing amid international economic downturn by remaining resolutely fashion fabulous.

But style in Dubai means way over retail therapy. It's about being seen and nowhere much more than at the Dubai World Cup, which is the hottest event from the emirate's hectic social calendar.

Visitors flock to town in their thousands and this year organisers promise the event will improve than ever with the help of the Dubai Gold Cup - a move which will boost the race card to nine events with overall prize money of US$27.25 million. But also for many of the 50,000 visitors who jet into the city for that Dubai World Cup, the day is less about horses and much more about fashion. However with an abundance of luxury brands and high-end labels at our fingers tips, where is someone to start when it comes to selecting the perfect race-day outfit?

Three-times Jaguar Style Stakes judge Kelly Lundberg is really a woman prepared on all things fashion related. "The key is to plan early," explains Lundberg, as she gears up for that big day. So, with early planning in your mind, what styles should shoppers opt for this season when they desire to be on trend and race ready? "Pastels are huge at the moment," explains Lundberg, "and great for a spring event. Pick plain colours instead of patterns." Lundberg also suggests opting for an ensemble that's as comfortable as it is stylish.

The Dubai World Cup is one of the few events around the Dubai social calendar that needs ladies to wear hats, so it's normal for attendees to visit full-scale. This year wide-brim hats with feather-finish are common as are brightly colored fascinators with mesh and bow detail. Renowned French milliner Murmure by Spirithas created a selection of high fashion and luxury ready-to-wear designs which take their cue from this season's hottest catwalk trends. Footwear also presents its dilemmas because the day is spent strolling in greens.