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FOLLOWERS of fashion have the chance to get in the fast lane this weekend and impress the crowds at the Bahrain International Circuit.
Petrol-heads may be focusing on the drama trackside but others will want to make a statement around the paddock and around the Formula One village.
If you are going through your wardrobe right now thinking: ‘I’m at a loss – what do I wear?’ Fear not! Race on down to City Centre Bahrain to get grand prix ready and enjoy these style tips to look hot without breaking a sweat in the sunshine and when the floodlights shine.
It’s stunning to witness the number of glamorous girls in bodycon dresses and spiked heels maneuvering around the paddock where all the drivers and Formula One’s big shots hang out, alongside smartly dressed dudes shadowing the men in overalls.
After dressing to impress having made the long trek between the off-track entertainment area and the media centre, I can promise you that heels are never a good idea … and I’ve had the blisters to prove it!
There is nothing wrong with looking your best, especially when parading around the circuit, but it may be worth breaking the fashionista’s golden rule of fashion over comfort on this occasion.
Nurture your sole: Flats and trainers are the way to go. Don’t break your ankles wearing super high heels for that elongated leggy effect. Yes, it may make your butt look brilliant but what’s the point if you end up falling flat on your face? You will be doing a lot of walking, so stay stylish with gladiators, sparkly sandals or cool kicks. If you desperately need a little height then go for wedge-heels or platforms. Functional fashion: Dress for the day. For example, the first day of F1 is a practice session so go for casual comfort such as leggings or jeans with trainers or ankle boots. If it’s a hot day in Bahrain wear a midi-skirt or maxi-dress with bohemian sandals. Then, on the big race day, dress up in your favourite outfit, perhaps a summer dress. Just remember to be edgy and colourful. Red is this year’s favourite for F1 which is why I did a pit stop at the Ferrari store in the popular mall.
Readers can deck themselves out in Ferrari gear from head-to-toe and its popular with both men and women. The Ferrari Puma Rosso Corsa T-shirt is priced at BD17 and Ferrari Puma Rosso Corsa trousers can be snapped up for BD42.
For those sensitive to the sun a Ferrari cap is priced at BD13. Boutique supervisor Alma Gonzales said: “The store is especially busy before and during race weekend. People can’t get enough of the merchandise!”
Bag it up: Large handbags draw too much attention at security checks and they can be troublesome to carry. It’s not easy lugging around a giant backpack either. Find a balance. Get a cute long-strapped tote to wear across or a smaller backpack and make sure to carry only the essentials - tissues, sunscreen, bandages, hand-sanitiser and lip gloss.
Hair we go: I know it’s hard to believe but it does get windy so keep hair tidy with a head band to keep those pesky strands out of your face. There is nothing worse than trying to look cute while walking around and then ending up choking on your own hair from a gust of wind.
Party pieces: Evening wear is where you shine! Formula 1 weekend is buzzing with fun parties and concerts including Fat Joe at Klub360 and Enrique Iglesias at BIC.
City Centre Bahrain’s Lipsy London store has some great dresses fit for the occasion. I paired a two-tone embroidered, bodycon midi-dress with a plunging neckline, priced at BD34.900 with sparkly jelly sandals.
The BD9 bejeweled sandals are pretty and perfect for dancing the night away. However, if there was a time to bring out your heels, this would be it.
I accessorised my outfit with a Lipsy pink clutch for BD10.
There you have it, start your shopping!
And, if you are still on the fence about what to wear, why not take a few cues from some of the gorgeous F1 wives and girlfriends.
McLaren driver Fernando Alonso’s leading lady, TV presenter Lara Alvarez, is always on point with her edgy rocker accessories.
Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo’s high school sweetheart Jemma Boskovich, looks a gem in off-the-shoulder outfits.
Ferrari driver Kimi Räikkönen’s wife Minttu Virtanen always looks elegant and graceful in a maxi or a summery dress and tends to pair it with Grecian sandals or a wedge for lift.
