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Cup Week 2026: Where Style Takes the Lead

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MERIVALE MALL: where style takes the lead

Race-day style doesn't have to feel overly formal, predictable or uncomfortable. Instead, it's about a modern approach to dressing that balances elegance with ease.

FASHION AS THE MOST ANTICIPATED SPECTACLE OF THE SEASON

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Nadine from Portfolio Model Agency wears Brigitte Blazer, Saint Tropez Lilja Shirt, and POL Lira Pant from Treasure Box by Biani, and jewellery from DK & Co. Corbin from Portfolio Model Agency wears Carnaby Chino Pant, Wynn Pattern Shirt, Judson Texture Blazer and Liberty Faye Pocket Square from Barkers, Dark Hampton Silk Twilly from Treasure Box by Biani, and Ray-Ban Sunglasses from OPSM. Sophie Doull wears Remain Lindy Shorts Smoke & COOPER Blazer by Treasure Box by Biani, jewellery by DK & Co.
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Nadine from Portfolio Model Agency wears Brigitte Blazer, Saint Tropez Lilja Shirt, and POL Lira Pant from Treasure Box by Biani, and jewellery from DK & Co. Corbin from Portfolio Model Agency wears Carnaby Chino Pant, Wynn Pattern Shirt, Judson Texture Blazer and Liberty Faye Pocket Square from Barkers, Dark Hampton Silk Twilly from Treasure Box by Biani, and Ray-Ban Sunglasses from OPSM. Sophie Doull wears Remain Lindy Shorts Smoke & COOPER Blazer by Treasure Box by Biani, jewellery by DK & Co.

This Cup Week editorial photoshoot was created in collaboration with Avenues Magazine for the October issue. Fashion styling was curated by Chelsea Brice, with photography by the talented Dave Richards at Riccarton Park in Christchurch. The campaign features Nadine and Corbin from Portfolio Models & Talent Agency, alongside independent Christchurch model Sophie Doull. The fashion story was brought to life with the support of participating Merivale Mall retailers Fashion Society, Treasure Box by Biani, STORM, Barkers, Moda Bella, Andrea Biani, OPSM and DK & Co, showcasing this season's most inspiring interpretations of modern trackside style.

While the action on the track may be the centrepiece of Cup Week, the fashion unfolding around it remains one of the most anticipated spectacles of the season. From long lunches and hospitality suites to race-day celebrations, Cup Week is an opportunity to embrace occasion dressing with confidence, individuality and a sense of fun.

This year, Merivale Mall partnered with award-winning fashion stylist Chelsea Brice to curate our Cup Week fashion campaign. Her message is simple: race-day style doesn't have to feel overly formal, predictable or uncomfortable. Instead, it's about a modern approach to dressing that balances elegance with ease.

The New Rules of Trackside Style

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Nadine from Portfolio Model Agency wears Muse Dress and Dark Hampton Scarf from Treasure Box by Biani, Bresley Starla Shoes from Moda Bella, and jewellery from DK & Co.

According to Chelsea, today's race-day wardrobe is less about following rigid conventions and more about creating a polished look that reflects your personality.

This season we're seeing a move towards:

  • Soft tailoring and relaxed silhouettes
  • Tonal dressing in shades of ivory, cream and white
  • Modern textures including lace, sheer fabrics and lightweight layering
  • Elevated accessories that transform familiar wardrobe favourites
  • Sophisticated alternatives to traditional spring florals (although florals remain a classic Cup Week favourite 💐)
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Nadine from Portfolio Model Agency wears Lace Pant from STORM, Second Female Sybell Lace Blouse and Beaded Bag from Treasure Box by Biani, Bresley Starla Shoes from Moda Bella, and jewellery from DK & Co. Independent model Sophie Doull wears RIXO Roux Dress Chelsea from Fashion Society, Hael and Jax Jupiter Heels from Andrea Biani, and jewellery from DK & Co. Corbin from Portfolio Model Agency wears Somerton Linen Texture Waistcoat and Pant, Tribeca Reg Cuff Shirt, Peter Chelsea Boot, and Panama Hat from Barkers.
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Nadine from Portfolio Model Agency wears Lace Pant from STORM, Second Female Sybell Lace Blouse and Beaded Bag from Treasure Box by Biani, Bresley Starla Shoes from Moda Bella, and jewellery from DK & Co. Independent model Sophie Doull wears RIXO Roux Dress Chelsea from Fashion Society, Hael and Jax Jupiter Heels from Andrea Biani, and jewellery from DK & Co. Corbin from Portfolio Model Agency wears Somerton Linen Texture Waistcoat and Pant, Tribeca Reg Cuff Shirt, Peter Chelsea Boot, and Panama Hat from Barkers.

The result is a fresh take on Cup Week dressing that feels considered, confident and effortlessly chic. Let's go through Chelsea's insightful tips and suggestions:

🌟 The Power of Tonal Dressing

Spring fashion is often associated with bold colour and florals, but one of the standout trends this season is the understated elegance of tonal dressing. Layering different shades of white, ivory and cream creates a look that feels fresh, expensive and timeless.

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Nadine from Portfolio Model Agency wears Brigitte Blazer, Saint Tropez Lilja Shirt, and POL Lira Pant from Treasure Box by Biani, and jewellery from DK & Co.

🌟 Tailoring Takes Centre Stage

Tailoring remains one of the most effective ways to elevate a race-day outfit. Structured blazers, wide-leg trousers and beautifully cut vests provide balance against softer fabrics and create a contemporary silhouette that feels both polished and effortless.

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Corbin from Portfolio Model Agency wears Carnaby Chino Pant, Wynn Pattern Shirt, Judson Texture Blazer, Liberty Faye Pocket Square and Peter Chelsea Boot from Barkers. Dark Hampton Silk Twilly from Treasure Box by Biani, and Sunglasses from OPSM.

🌟 A Fresh Alternative to Spring Colour

Chelsea's styling edit embraces olive as a sophisticated alternative to the expected spring palette. Elegant, modern and surprisingly versatile, olive works beautifully when the silhouette remains simple and refined.

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Nadine from Portfolio Model Agency wears Lace Pant from STORM, Second Female Sybell Lace Blouse and Beaded Bag from Treasure Box by Biani, Bresley Starla Shoes from Moda Bella, and jewellery from DK & Co. Independent model Sophie Doull wears RIXO Roux Dress Chelsea from Fashion Society, Hael and Jax Jupiter Heels from Andrea Biani, and jewellery from DK & Co. Corbin from Portfolio Model Agency wears Somerton Linen Texture Waistcoat and Pant, Tribeca Reg Cuff Shirt, Peter Chelsea Boot, and Panama Hat from Barkers.

🌟 Texture, Transparency and Contrast

Lace, sheer fabrics and transparency continue to influence occasion dressing this season. These details introduce texture and dimension, creating interest through layering and movement.

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Nadine from Portfolio Model Agency wears Lace Pant from STORM, Second Female Sybell Lace Blouse and Beaded Bag from Treasure Box by Biani, Bresley Starla Shoes from Moda Bella, and jewellery from DK & Co.

🌟 The Accessory That Changes Everything

This season, scarves are taking on a leading role. Alongside a great bag, jewellery and race-day headwear, a carefully styled scarf can completely transform pieces already hanging in your wardrobe.

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Independent model Sophie Doull wears Drape Front Top from STORM, AG Denim Pant from Fashion Society, Dark Hampton Scarf from Treasure Box by Biani, jewellery from DK & Co, and Tiffany Sunglasses from OPSM.

🌟 Confidence Is Always In Fashion

Cup Week offers the perfect opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, experiment with new styling ideas and embrace occasion dressing in a way that feels authentic to you.

Because at Merivale Mall, style does not follow the crowd. It takes the lead.

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Independent model Sophie Doull wears RIXO Roux Dress Chelsea from Fashion Society, Hael and Jax Jupiter Heels from Andrea Biani, and jewellery from DK & Co. Corbin from Portfolio Model Agency wears Somerton Linen Texture Waistcoat and Pant, Tribeca Reg Cuff Shirt, Peter Chelsea Boot, and Panama Hat from Barkers.
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MEET CHELSEA BRICE

"Style isn't about rules - it's about feeling confident in your own skin."
Chelsea Brice is an award‑winning personal stylist and Founder of Chelsea Brice Style, working across Melbourne and Christchurch.

Known for her intuitive eye and confidence‑led approach, she specialises in helping women reconnect with their style through considered, effortless wardrobes that feel authentic and empowering.

Blending expert styling with deep insight into mindset and self‑belief, Chelsea creates transformative experiences that simplify getting dressed and restore confidence from the inside out.

CREATIVE CREDITS

This editorial photoshoot was proudly created in collaboration with Avenues Magazine for the October 2026 issue.

Special thanks to Chelsea Brice, photographer Dave Richards, models Nadine and Corbin from Portfolio Model & Talent Agency, and independent model Sophie, Riccarton Park for the shoot location and Kezia Murphy & Princess the horse from Murphy Racing Stables

We also extend our thanks to participating retailers Fashion Society, Treasure Box by Biani, STORM, Barkers, Moda Bella, Andrea Biani, OPSM and DK & Co.

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TAKE THE LEAD & WIN THIS CUP WEEK

Win a curated Cup Week styling experience with Chelsea at Merivale Mall, complete with VIP access to The NED Fashion in the Field on Cup Day.

Competition will run as of 27th October 2026. All details, terms & conditions will be available then.

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