When Phoebe Leung first studied millinery in the United Kingdom, where heritage raceday fashion thrives at events like Royal Ascot, she saw style, hats and racewear as part of the spectacle. Now back home in Hong Kong, with her atelier "Atelier Phyl" in Kowloon Bay, she believes the city’s raceday culture is entering a bold new phase.
“When I trained in the UK, dressing for the races was a tradition, almost an art form,” Leung says. “It’s exciting to see Hong Kong catching up. Ten years ago, people wore tiny fascinators; now they come in statement hats. There’s real growth—and joy—in it.”
The upcoming Sa Sa Ladies’ Purse Day, scheduled for Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Sha Tin Racecourse, is a vivid indicator of this change. The race, first run in 1846, is one of Hong Kong’s oldest and most respected contests, yet now the focus is just as much on outfit, accessories and photo ops as it is on the horses.
Organizers, including the Hong Kong Jockey Club and cosmetics brand Sa Sa, promise a full day of fashion-forward racing: a “pink party” theme, gourmet dining, interactive installations, photo zones and of course the thrill of live thoroughbred competition.
For fans of fashion and fun, the event is packed with perks. Everyone entering the public enclosure before 3:30 p.m. will receive a designated souvenir brooch while stocks last. The “Best Dressed Award” invites attendees to arrive in pink—and in style—with the chance to win luxury giveaways. For tourists, there’s a special package that includes free admission, HK$100 worth of food-and-beverage vouchers, a limited-edition mini horse plush keychain, and more.
Leung is especially excited by the platform the race provides for dress-up and self-expression.
“The racecourse is now somewhere you can show personality,” she says. “It’s not just about the horses—it’s about confidence, color, and creativity. Go big or go home!”
She adds that the hat still remains the cornerstone of raceday style.
“The hat gives direction to the outfit,” she explains. “Choose it first, then build around it—your dress, your accessories, your makeup. It all flows from that one statement.”
Leung’s overall message: show up, dress up, and have fun. She says she’s seen first-hand how Hong Kong’s raceday culture is changing. “Way back, ten years ago, ladies would wear a small fascinator. Now I see large, dramatic hats, bold colors, and real commitment to the look.”
At the Ladies’ Purse Day you’ll find not only the big race, a 1,800-meter middle-distance contest but immersive installations such as the “Champions Connection” zone featuring digital horse sculptures, photo walls and craft workshops. There’s also the “Sa Sa Beauty Bazaar,” offering discounted cosmetics and sets, along with themed cuisine and beverage kiosks tailored to the “pink party” atmosphere.
If you’ve ever considered going to the races but thought it was just for betting, Leung says now is the moment to reconsider. “Dressing up, embracing the hat, owning the look—it turns the racetrack into your stage.”
Have fun and be yourself
“Confidence is the best accessory. Raceday style should express you. Don’t overthink it—turn up, smile, and own your look.”
It all starts with the hat
“Pick your hat first. Let its shape or color guide the rest of your outfit.”
Be bold with makeup
“Skip nude tones—it’s a day to shine. Go for a lip color with impact; it ties the whole look together.”
Match your accessories
“Coordinate handbag and shoes. Choose a color from your dress pattern to create harmony.”
Don’t underestimate earrings
“They frame your face and balance your hat—small detail, big effect.”
