Style super blogger Nicole Warne is something of a Spring Racing aficionado.

Known for her cultivated, whimsical blog Gary Pepper Girl – which pulls more than 35,000 readers a day ­– Warne’s Spring Carnival looks are the perfect pairing of originality and
timelessness.

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While today she can usually be seen sporting head-to-toe designer garb, Warne’s beginnings were relatively humble.

She started Gary Pepper Girl in 2009 with just $200 and many of her early posts feature op-shop purchases and clever DIY projects, proving that she is well-versed in the challenges of looking chic on a budget.

Ahead of this weekend’s Caulfield Cup, and the upcoming Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington, the Caulfield Style Ambassador shares her tips for pulling together a race look that’s affordable, on-trend and classic.

Pick a colour, any colour

“I’m always drawn to beautiful colours, both visually and aesthetically, so choosing an outfit for Spring Racing is usually based on colours and moods.

“I focus on the colour and print first, and then the silhouette and fabrication make the final decision.”

“This season, we saw designers choosing an array of go-to shades of red, blue, black, beige and white. Why wear one colour when you can wear several?”

Look to the stars

“Modern day muses like Victoria Beckham, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kate Winslet all embody the traditional lady-like essence of Spring Racing fashion, as well as carrying themselves with such confidence and grace.

“Audrey Hepburn will always be the ultimate icon, but I can imagine Kate Middleton would be racing royalty too. It’s all about being classic and chic at the same time.”

Do-it-yourself

“One of my past hobbies was scrapbooking and DIY projects.

“Unfortunately I don’t have time for either anymore, but creating a DIY fascinator is incredibly easy, unique and affordable.

“I’ve made them before for fancy dress parties and you can buy all of the materials from your local fabric store for under $30.

“If you can’t afford a dress, borrow one! I truly believe in recycling your wardrobe, even if it means swapping with friends to save some money.”

Think local

“I love supporting Australian designers, so I often look through their look books for inspiration before deciding what to wear.”

Have a solid foundation

“Personally, I always choose my outfit first and my head piece and accessories follow shortly after.

“It really is like a puzzle, though, as each element has to fit perfectly with the next one.

“I don’t tend to wear many accessories, so making a decision on the outfit is always the longest process, and then the rest of the details fall into place naturally.”

Match your makeup and hair to your headwear 

“I don’t believe in following rules, but I do feel your hair and make-up choices should be based around your outfit and fascinator.

“There are endless occasions throughout the year to wear a beautiful outfit and go out with your friends, but this is the one defining moment of the year where it’s all about the headwear.

“I would focus on making that detail your priority and matching your beauty look accordingly.”

Avoid comparisons

“I often say the best accessory you can have is confidence. It’s not about what you wear, but how you wear it, which is why I adore the Spring Racing season, especially the Caulfield Cup.

“You get to observe groups of women all expressing themselves freely through fashion and beauty. Style is so subjective, so I appreciate each outfit differently and try to avoid comparing each.”