There were lots of notable events and parties happening on July 1, but the guests at the Millarville Racetrack were probably having the most fun out of anyone imbibing on their day off. The Millarville Racetrack is usually the last place you’d find the best dressed of Calgary, but the Packwood Grand was an exception to the rule.
Being shuttled past the general chaos of the trailers and pick up trucks that lined the gravel roads just off the 22X Highway, guests of Packwood were dropped at the red carpet entrance and ushered into a VIP lounge with white tents and Veuve Clicquot.
Inspired by the gentrified atmosphere you might find at the Kentucky Derby, this special day at the races was organized by the same people behind the Deighton Cup event, an annual horse race affair in Vancouver. Judging by the turn out on July 1st, it’s safe to say this will become an annual affair in Alberta as well.
Between the races, the fabulous crowd sipped on Mint Juleps and Last Best beer as they mingled, placed bets, and dined on an impressive spread of BBQ. It was a chance to catch up with friends after the long weekend and a fun opportunity to take in some eye candy.
Events are always more fun when everyone is dressed to impress, and hanging out under the white tents felt more like an impromptu fashion show at Holt Renfrew than a horse race. Over-the-top hats, bold patterns, layered jewelry, and perfectly coiffed hair were the standard. There wasn’t a pair of jeans in sight!
A few of the more notable looks of the day included gentlemen sporting blazers and suit pants in pastel colours and prints with neck scarves, suspenders and sharp caps. Beyond the sea of gigantic hats covered in tuille, flowers and feather pieces, most ladies were seen in longer summer maxis or shorter, fitted numbers that Kate Middleton would have approved.
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