Whether you’re hosting a corporate lunch, a luxe marquee experience, or a private party with friends, Cup Day is your chance to make a statement. When venues create an amazing experience, guests don’t just remember it, they come back year after year!
We’ve rounded up five styling themes to inspire your Melbourne Cup celebration and help you create a day that looks as good as it feels.
1. Spring Luxe
Spring is the perfect excuse to bring fresh colour and elegance to your Melbourne Cup celebration. This look blends relaxed glamour with bright, joyful tones. Think crisp white lounges, cane accents, and bursts (changed from “pops”) of vibrant pink, coral, and citrus-inspired florals. Add textured cushions, breezy linen draping, gold cutlery, and colourful cocktail tables for a lively yet sophisticated vibe. A floral arbour, beautifully styled tables, and a champagne tower finish this fresh and fabulous springtime look.
2. Derby Day Elegance
Channel the timeless sophistication of Derby Day with a crisp black-and-white palette and sleek, statement styling. Picture white lounges layered with monochrome cushions, black stools, and high bars dressed in bold stripes. White umbrellas and lush white florals bring freshness, while sharp signage and refined table settings tie it all together. It’s classic Cup Day style…modern, refined, and effortlessly chic.
3. Birdcage Glamour
Inspired by the exclusive Birdcage marquees at Flemington, this theme is all about high-end, VIP energy with show-stopping style.
Picture crisp white lounges layered with plush velvet and satin cushions, elegant plinths, flowing silk draping, and a statement bar as the centrepiece. Add lush green-and-white floral arrangements, premium signage, and a styled photo moment for that high-profile marquee feel.
For a playful edge, include a betting station styled to suit, for keeping guests engaged between races.
4. Rosé All Day
Let’s be honest, rosé is basically the unofficial drink of Melbourne Cup, so why not design a look around it? A rosé station or chic champagne bar creates a crowd-pleasing focal point.
Soft, feminine, and just plain pretty. Rosé All Day brings together white furniture, blush toned cushions, rose-toned florals, and elegant table styling that makes guests feel instantly spoilt.
Think pink signage, floral backdrops made for Instagram, and brass accents paired with cut glassware and soft lighting for a touch of understated glamour.
5. Tropical Paradise
Bring the vibrant energy of an island escape to Cup Day with bold, confident styling. Layer hot pink, coral, yellow, and teal across rattan lounges, patterned cushions, crisp napery, and shade umbrellas. Colour-blocked florals, striking bar setups, and lush greenery backdrops create instant impact. Complete the scene with gold accents, neon signage, and a cocktail-style betting station for a look that’s playful yet effortlessly refined.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Whatever your theme, there are a few styling moments that elevate any Cup Day event:
- Photo Backdrop: Everyone’s dressed up, they’ll want photos! A floral wall, arbour or branded backdrop is a must.
- Statement Entry: First impressions count. Welcome signage, a floral archway, or a bold entrance display sets the tone.
- Betting Station: Keep it interactive with a styled betting cart or custom bar setup.
- Chic Bar Styling: As the social hub, your bar should shine. Dress it up with florals, signage, and themed drinks.
- Chill-Out Lounges: Trust us, those heels don’t last all day. A comfy lounge area with shade is a lifesaver
Ready to Create a Cup Day Celebration with all the Style and fun?
Melbourne Cup is one of our busiest days of the year, and our lounges, bars, carts, and photo backdrops book out fast. If you’re planning a Cup Day event, now’s the time to secure your styling. Get in touch with our team.