Mr. Loveridge and me

Fiorente, the winning beauty of the day.

While visiting my dashing, charming and handsome fiancé in Australia, I had the distinct pleasure of getting swept up in ‘Cup Fever,” which has nothing to do with bra size, but rather has everything to do with the most famous horse race of the year ‘down under.’ On the first Tuesday of November, which coincides with our Election Day here in the states, the best thoroughbreds run a long 3200 meters which is just short of two miles, quite long by American standards, around the Flemington racecourse for the coveted Melbourne Cup trophy. I was delighted to get into the very exclusive ‘Fashions on the Field’ finalists’ competition at the Myer department store tent on the racegrounds. What a show! Gorgeous avant garde designs, including a dress draped with saddle leather straps and tack reminiscent of equestrian martingales…sexy and most appropriate for the occasion. I was delighted to get into the festivities. The whole day was a stunning event to attend….from beginning to exciting end with favorite Fiorente providing a heart-stopping come-from-behind finish. What a wonderful serendipity to catch this fabulous show and…. to find the most amazing hat to match my navy and orange Halston dress….at a consignment store, no less, in Mornington, outside of Melbourne! Thanks to Bella and its lovely proprietress, Dee, for completing my outfit well beyond my expectations! That’s what magic is all about!

P.S.  Actually, the whole trip was quite magical. Thank you, my love.

The finalists

The judges…in red.

The winner!

Dita Van Teese and emcee

Ann and Vince in Melbourne going to Havana Nights.

Dee, proprietress of shop where I got the ‘perfect chapeau’ for my dress for the Cup!

With Mel at fabulous Zumay salon in Mornington getting me ready for the Melbourne Cup!