Summer is just around the corner here in Adelaide, and with the change in season comes a whole lineup of events where you’ll be wanting to break out your best pair of heels or loafers, and be looking your very best. A standout event on both the entertainment and fashion calendars is the Adelaide Polo Classic, and this is one you’ll want to get dressed up for.
The epitome of class and elegance, the polo is as much about looking your best as it is the sport itself. Unlike the formality of spring racing, polo fashion exudes a refined yet relaxed vibe that blends luxury with leisure. On the cards are flowing silhouettes, soft tailoring, linen suiting, and wide-brimmed hats paired with bold accessories to create an aesthetic that’s as timeless as it is contemporary. Polo style captures that perfect balance between glamour, comfort, and sophistication. It’s the same effortless elegance that made Julia Roberts’ brown-and-white polka-dot dress in Pretty Woman an enduring style icon that’s polished and beautifully understated.
Looking for a cheat sheet of dos and don’ts here it is! Here’s all the quick facts, but we’ll dive deeper into it below with pics and more information, so keep reading to find out more.
For the Women:
| Polo Fashion Dos | Polo Fashion Don’ts |
| Hats – Wide-brimmed straw styles, fedoras, or chic boaters are perfect for an event in the sun. | Fascinators – They’re for the races, not the polo. Hats or scarves are the go. |
| Breathable fabrics – Linen, cotton, and silk blends are all ideal to keep you cool and polished. | Anything too tight or uncomfortable – you’ll want to move and dance comfortably! |
| Relaxed tailoring – Floaty dresses, midi skirts, or crisp linen sets are in. | Formal wear – Polo is all about relaxed sophistication, not black-tie glamour. |
| Block heels and wedges – You’ll be standing and walking on grass, so practicality wins. | Stilettos – you’ll sink straight into the grass, save them for the afterparty. |
| Pop of colour – Stripes, polka dots, or a florals to stand out on the field. | Head-to-toe black – Polo is a daytime summer event, so keep it fresh and light. |
For the Gents:
| Polo Fashion Dos | Polo Fashion Don’ts |
| Linen shirts – A crisp, well-fitted linen or cotton shirt is the ultimate polo essential. | Singlets, tees, or sports gear – Keep it elevated and event-appropriate. |
| Chinos or tailored shorts – Lightweight and stylish. | Distressed denim – Smart casual doesn’t mean scruffy. |
| Loafers or brogues – Comfort and class in equal measure. | Flip-flops or slides – They might suit the beach, but not the polo field. |
| Panama or fedora hat – Practical, stylish, and quintessentially polo. | Don’t forget a hat or sunnies – You’ll be outdoors all day, so sun protection is non-negotiable. |
As the official fashion partner of the Adelaide Polo Classic, Burnside Village is celebrating that very essence of polo chic, bringing together some of Australia’s leading fashion houses to inspire this season’s looks. Guests can curate their race-day wardrobes from brands like Camilla and Marc, Aje, Carla Zampatti, Witchery, Seed Heritage and Scanlan Theodore, each brand celebrating modern Australian style.
“The ultimate polo ensembles blend timeless style with in-season influence,” shared Natalie Buckingham, Fashion on the Field Producer for the Adelaide Polo Classic. “It’s about reimagining heritage style through today’s fashion lens — creating looks that feel polished, elevated, and reflective of personal style.”
For event ambassadors like Kym Hodgkinson and Lucy Damin, polo fashion is all about effortless sophistication. “The Adelaide Polo Classic is all about effortless sophistication,” shared Kym Hodgkinson, APC Event Ambassador. “For women, think floaty silhouettes, elevated neutrals and a great pair of statement sunglasses. For men, tailored chinos, linen shirts and loafers or dress sneakers always look sharp.”
Lucy Damin, APC Ambassador, added, “Polo style is where elegance meets ease. You can move, mingle and dance the afternoon away — all while looking beautifully put together. It’s not about high heels and fascinators, it’s about feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin.”
That easy, more relaxed energy is what sets polo fashion apart from your usual racewear. While spring racing often leans toward bright colour-blocking, statement millinery and sharp tailoring, polo style embraces a softer, sun-smart approach. Fascinators are swapped for straw hats or silk scarves, stilettos make way for wedges or block heels, and lightweight linen replaces heavy suiting.
The Adelaide Polo Classic is one of the most anticipated events on South Australia’s summer social calendar. This year’s event is already on track to sell out, with limited tickets remaining for both the exclusive Veuve Clicquot VIP Marquee and the lively Stables by South Ave precinct. The Veuve Clicquot Marquee offers four hours of flowing French champagne, premium hospitality and trackside views, while The Stables will bring live entertainment, summer cocktails and a fun social scene.
The polo is an afternoon of sport, style and celebration, and totally Adelaide’s most fashionable way to toast the end of the year. The Adelaide Polo Classic returns with all the glamour, energy and elegance that define summer in South Australia, so don’t wait to secure your spot!
Adelaide Polo Classic
When: Friday, December 12th
Where: Ellis Park, Tampawardli, City West
For more information, click here.
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