The Spring Racing Carnival has forever been a massive date on the Australian fashion calendar, where some of the nations best frocks, fascinators, suits and dresses come out for judgment.

Within the carnival is a separate fashion festival, the Melbourne Cup Carnival, a week-long festival at Flemington racetrack.

In the past decade, Australia, and in particular Melbourne has shown an increasing interest in celebrities and their taste in racing fashion.

Every weekend we flick to the back pages of the daily newspapers to see what new trends our big names are starting, and what’s ‘in’ and ‘out’ for the current carnival.

Names such as Paris and Nicky Hilton, Eva Longoria, Luciano Pavarotti, Kate Bosworth, Chris Isaak, Rachel Hunter, Diana Ross, Snoop Dogg, Carson Kressley, Clive Owen and singer Rihanna, have ventured down under to showcase their class to us.

This year, we have been mesmerized with Miranda Kerr and her elegant style, and most viewers have been quick to note the fashion statements made by the stunning brunette.

As always, there will be hits and misses this racing carnival, and to ensure you look your bets, homework is essential.

Following the hot items and new trends are essential, as to is getting in early to ensure you have time on your side.

The atmosphere created by the Spring Carnival is electrifying, and a large part of that is due to the fashion standards set by the city of Melbourne.

When the sun comes out and the blend of colours, style and class ignites the track, the Racing Spring Carnival is without a doubt one of the best fashion festivals in the country.