With two days (or less) to go until the biggest fashion event of the summer, you probably have some questions. What should I wear? Why should I care? What exactly is the Deighton Cup?
The short version, because we’d all rather be talking about fashion, is that it’s Vancouver’s answer to the Kentucky Derby – an adrenaline-filled day at the races, lined with more pageantry and Kate Middleton pillbox hats than any other event in the city. And then there’s the winning.
If you think we mean playing the ponies, you’re sorely mistaken. We’re taking winninnnng. As in beating all the other beautiful people there for the title of Best Dressed.
While some of you will be noshing your mint julep snow cones or lazily tossing lawn bowls in a thrilling match of pétanque, the rest of us will be stabbing each other’s eyes out with peacock quills for the honour.
To pour flaming makeup remover on the fire, for the first year ever a Deighton Cup sponsor, Market One Media Group, has put up $500 cash prizes for each of the sexes. With event tickets starting at $75, that’s what we call a return on your investment.
"We're trying to focus on bringing this to the next level nationally, and part of that would be creating the standard of the Kentucky Derby or the Ascot in terms of style and fashion," says Deighton Cup style director Crystal Carson (check out the #wereabouttogetfancy series on their youtube channel). "If you look at the horse races historically in Europe, all of them are about fashion. Even smaller races you've never heard of have best-dressed awards with major sponsors attached. We don't want to be sub-par in in the world, so to speak. We want Canada to be recognized for creating an event of that level."
Let it be known, then. For a city that generally loses at fashion, the Vancouverites who show up to this event each year are dialed in by any city’s standards. And if that’s not intimidating enough, let’s look at the depth of fashion expertise training their knowing eyes on your savoir-faire.
Hmmm. Christie Lohr – four years spent running Canada’s go-to fashion industry career site. Jason Matlo... Only Vancouver’s soberest style savant (good luck getting a read on what that guy is thinking). Then there’s photographer Joshua McVeity. After his camera’s done ignoring you, try snagging the lens of his boyfriend, Fred Lee. You might know him. Oh, and over there? That’s modeling agency mogul Liz Bell cutting a striking silhouette while wondering what exactly is going on with your eyebrows.
These are some of the people who will be picking out the sartorial elite from the crowd and bestowing them with silken sashes and street style cred for the year. Yet, despite being busy fighting fashion crime, these Vancouver superheroes are actually surprisingly approachable. So we asked them for the inside track on how to catch their attention this July 26:
JASON MATLO
(Fashion deisgner, Deighton Cup virgin)
Why are you looking forward to the Deighton Cup? It's a step back in time; a celebration of style and fashion. Classic cocktails. An elegant social soiree at the race tracks. I have never attended the Deighton Cup, however, I am looking forward to this because I am a hopeless romantic. We live in a time that is very fast. Traditions are being lost and grace and elegance and sophistication are being replaced with shock value, hype and reality TV realness. I long for social interaction, femininity and gentlemen in beautiful tailoring.
What will you be looking for as a style judge? Originality, individuality, and personality. Plus a sense of silhouette, proportion, and fit.
When giving out your sash, if it’s a close call between two people, what will be the tie breaker? There will be a clear winner. But, the devil is in the details, so I guess I’ll be looking for that.
Some trends you think we’ll see? Colour blocking is on trend, as is black and white. Stripes and madras plaids are everywhere at the moment, as are polka dots and stripes. It is a veritable Deighton Cup smorgasbord in the boutiques right now.
Where can people find the perfect Deighton outfit? Fine Finds has some lovely dresses that are affordable. Zara is always a good place to look. Men can try Top Shop, Zara Man, and, actually, Le Chateau has some amazing bow ties and ties at the moment. Women: The Room at Hudson Bay if you can afford it. Gentlemen: Harry Rosen.
Help set the bar high and finish this style sentence: “At the Deighton Cup, I’ll be disappointed if I see (blank) and thrilled if I see (blank)?” I’ll be disappointed if I see a Herve Leger bandage dress, espadrilles, or smell Pink Sugar perfume, and thrilled if I see ladylike style and clean-shaven men.
The Ascot in England is known for having strict fashion guidelines. If you could institute one rule for the Deighton Cup, what would it be? I would love if the Royal Ascot rules applied for Deighton Cup. It would be amazing to see that level of formality!
How do you choose which horses to bet on? Have you ever won big? Choose a black horse. I have been a big winner in life; not so much at the track.
What is the best hat you've ever seen? See it here.
Christie Lohr
(Founder of Style Nine to Five, four-year Deighton veteran; )
Why are you looking forward to the Deighton Cup? It's the most fashionable event of the year! There aren't many events, besides your friend's summer wedding, where you get to dress to the nines. It's a reason to rock styles you may not normally wear, like big fancy hats.
What you will be looking for as a style judge? How they’ve put the whole look together, from the hat to the shoes. How creative did they get? Did they add anything extra to their hats, i.e. fresh flowers (something I’m doing). And how they’ve incorporated today’s trends.
If it’s a close call between two people, what will be the tie breaker? The hat’s uniqueness.
What are some trends you think we’ll see? Ladies: Lace, florals, midi-skirts, high waisted skirt/crop top combos, ruffles, statement necklaces, feathers, gloves. Guys: Chino shorts, khakis, bow ties, hats, gingham, loafers with no socks.
Some style advice to keep in mind while getting ready? Stay away from the LBD and go for colour. Try to not be too matchy-matchy with your fascinator and dress. Don’t be shy on your hair and makeup: Curl your hair if you normally don’t; wear that red lip!
Places to shop for the perfect outfit? Madame Moje on South Granville, Zara, Mine & Yours, and BCBG.
Finish this style sentence: “At the Deighton Cup, I’ll be disappointed if I see (blank) and thrilled if I see (blank)?” I’ll be disappointed if I see flip flops and thrilled if I see a guy wearing a suit with shorts like Pharrell Williams!
How do you choose your horse? Have you ever won big? Haha... Horse betting? I’m too busy drinking champagne and taking photos.
What is the best hat you've ever seen? I'm loving this one from the '60s, or this one.
Joshua McVeity
(Photographer, three years and counting)
A favourite memory from Deightons past: The champagne, the craft cocktails, the general excitement of thoroughbred racing. I had never been to a racetrack before the Deighton Cup.
Describe what you will be looking for as a style judge? Creativity, colour, and individualism is the order of the day. As a photographer, I am always struck by a person’s presence. It may sound like a cliché, but it’s not just the clothes, it’s how you carry them.
If it’s a close call between two people, what will be the tie breaker? Money... Just kidding. Again, its how they carry themselves that will get my vote.
Some style advice to keep in mind while getting ready: For ideas, feel free to go online for some inspirational photos. Biggest advice: fit. Nothing looks as bad as an ill fitted dress or suit.
Shopping... Go: For the boys: Baracos + Brand in West Vancouver; J.Crew and Brooks Brothers.For the ladies, first stop is millinery. It will be your foundation for your outfit. Try Goorin Bros. in Yaletown, Granville Island Hat Shop and Hive Mind Millinery on West 8th.
What is an absolute "don't"? Avoid anything too garish. You don't want your outfit to look like a costume.
How do you choose which horses to bet on? Have you ever won big? I have never bet on a horse. If I was to, it would probably be the name.
The Royal Ascot is known for having strict fashion guidelines. If you could institute one rule for the Deighton Cup, what would it be? If you are not going to run, don’t wear running shoes. Dress like a man.
Jake Boxer
(Real estate investor; second year attending)
What are you looking for as a style judge? Creativity and originality. I don't want to see something I'd see on a mannequin replicated by someone in what they're wearing.
How has the event gotten better? I have to say, in general, men's fashion has certainly improved in Vancouver. They're taking it more seriously. For example, I wear pocket squares and have been wearing them for years. I inherited them from my dad. And I'd say when I go to events I see more than 50 per cent of the men wearing pocket squares now. You wouldn't see that three years ago.
Where do you recommend shopping for the perfect Deighton outfit? Who are the sponsors again? [laughs] Just kidding, you don't have to go to a special store, it's more what you have and how you put it together. Pants are pants, a shirt's a shirt, and a hat's a hat. It's what you do with it. Women have a lot more creativity with what they can do and their hats reflect a lot of that. I've attended Ascot before in England where it's all about the hats.
How do you choose which horse to bet on? Have you ever won big? I have won and it was through serious statistical analysis, linear regressions, and then I just picked a horse. [laughs]
Carlie Wong
(Wedding and eveningwear designer, Deighton Cup sophomore; )
What will you be looking for as a style judge? In the hat, something daring and original, but overall taste level of the whole package is what I look for; a fine line between standout and subtly.
When giving out your sash, if it's a close call between two people, what will be the tie breaker? Sheer balls.
What are some trends you think we'll see? The only trend that will be prevalent is originality. I think everyone will be a standout in some way.
Give some style advice to keep in mind while getting ready: I think Coco Chanel said it best... Check your reflection in the mirror before you leave the house and take one item off. Refine and edit. The saying "less is more" is true. People associate that with being "boring", but in fact its not that at all; you're actually letting the statement shine brighter without the fluff around it.
Where would you recommend shopping for that perfect Deighton outfit? Get it custom made... But I'm biased.
How do you choose which horses to bet on? Have you ever won big? I've never bet on any horses before, but I would choose based on the horse's record.
Finish this style sentence: "At the Deighton Cup, I'll be disappointed if I see (blank) and thrilled if I see (blank)?" I'll be disappointed if I see basic floppy sun hats on women and cheap, small-brimmed fabric fedoras on men, and thrilled if I see original designs and quality hats.
What is the best hat you've ever seen? Isabella Blow, naturally. I love the shape and simplicity of it.
Bobbie Long
(Style coach and menswear specialist at Baracos+Brand, third time at the Cup; Matthew Chen photo)
A favourite memory from Deightons past: Last year Christine Baracos and I attended “The Big Smoke” on the Friday night, we had such a great time. The men’s fashion that night was spectacular! Hope they bring that night back again next year.
What will you be looking for as a style judge? Unique details. I often say that personal style is created through the little details that most people often overlook. Fit and tailoring are also big ones for me. There is no excuse for ill-fitting clothing.
What are some trends you think we'll see? Colour, lots of colour. Not just for the ladies, but for the fellows as well. I hope to see fellows dressing like gentlemen and wearing colourful pants, shirts and accessories like ascots, hats and bowties. I think we’ll see lots of well-tailored vests, sport coats and summer suits like the classic seersucker.
Give some style advice for someone to keep in mind while getting ready: Because I am a men’s stylist, I am going to address the gentlemen. Tailoring is the number one thing that can make or break any outfit, and for men it is a major detail. This is something that sets the men apart from the boys. Pay attention to the fit of your shirt. Too baggy, have it darted. Sleeves too long, have them shortened. This goes the same with suits, sport coats and pants. Make sure your jacket fits perfectly, especially in the sleeve length. This goes the same for your pants, get the length right, sloppy pants are not flattering on anyone and it just makes you look lazy.
Where would you recommend shopping for that perfect Deighton outfit? I styled all four Deighton Cup Partners for this year's event with clothing provided by Baracos+Brand in West Vancouver and hats by Goorin Bros. in Yaletown, and am looking forward to their reveal on the 26th! For women: Blush Bridal & Special Occasions, Mine & Yours and Meuse Boutique.
What is an absolute "don't"? Jeans,T-shirts, yoga pants, board shorts, runners or flip flops. Dress up or stay home!
How do you choose which horses to bet on? Have you ever won big? I am not a gambling type of gal, however I do like to pick who I think will win for each race. Based on my track record, I should probably be betting, as I’ve picked a few winners but didn’t bet on them. My strategy is unconventional, I don’t pay attention to the stats, I’m all about the look and attitude of the horse in the paddock right before the race. You can tell a lot about a horse during that time.
Finish this style sentence: "At the Deighton Cup, I'll be disappointed if I see (blank) and thrilled if I see (blank)?" I will be disappointed if I see fellows not stepping up and dressing up. I will be thrilled to see fellows really putting effort and attention into their entire outfit, from hat to shoes. I especially love it when couples coordinate their outfits.
The Royal Ascot is known for having strict fashion guidelines. If you could institute one rule for the Deighton Cup, what would it be? I think that the ticket should say “ Dress code strictly enforced” with a ‘Style Guide’ on the website to help give people inspiration of what to wear and what is not acceptable. This is a next-level type of event, the fashion should be, too.
What is the best hat you've ever seen? I’m obsessed with the Saucy Milliner and her spectacular creations. This hat is stunning.
Get the look:
Left: Benvenuto blue suit, $895; SAND pink shirt, $198. (BaracosAndBrand.com)
Middle: Jason Matlo Collection brocade strapless dress, $900 (JasonMatlo.com); hat (HiveMindMillinery.com; contact for pricing).
Right: Riviera cream sport coat, $498; Coppley light blue pants, $278; Pure blue sport shirt with pindots, $138. (BaracosAndBrand.com)
Both men: Baracos + Brand private label ties, $55; Dion pocket squares, $20; Bench Craft suspenders, $55.
Left: Benvenuto light blue sport coat, $595; Culturata multi-coloured sport shirt, $198; Bruun & Stengade mint green shorts, $60; Bench Craft suspenders, $55; Edward Armah orange pocket circle, $60.
Middle: Ingram license plate shirt, $188; Bruun & Stengade red shorts, $60; Edward Armah red dot bowtie, $98; Bench Craft multi-coloured woven belt, $60. (BaracosAndBrand.com)
Right: Babe by Jason Matlo tuxedo dress, $365.00 (JasonMatlo.com), custom whimsy (HiveMindMillinery.com; contact for pricing).
For more, click here for a step-by-step tutorial for getting flawless skin on a hot, sunny day.
And for everything else you need to know: DeightonCup.com
Models: Deva Middleton (Richards), Kelsey Klassen, and Chris McCormack (Richards)
Photographer: Joshua McVeity
Makeup/Hair: Shaylen Anita (Nae Do Illusion Studio)
Stylist: Crystal Carson
Stylist’s Assistant: Emery Pastachak
Locations: Shannon Stables and Cecil Green Park House
Special thanks to Kimberley St. Pierre and ‘Finn’.
