A Fashion Writer’s Guide To A Stylish 72 Hours For F1 Weekend

Grand Prix weekend isn’t just about fast cars. It’s also the thrill of seeing the city come alive, the stylish people-watching and embracing how much Melburnians truly love sport. 

And yes, you obviously want to dress and feel the part trackside. That’s why we’re taking cues from Ralph Lauren Fragrances’ Polo Red Extreme—McLaren star and reigning World Driver Champion Lando Norris’ signature scent—because you’re never fully dressed without fragrance. 

With Formula 1 returning this March to Melbourne, we’ve curated the ultimate 72-hour F1 weekend to maximise your time on and off the track—from where to start your morning to the best spots to sip an evening vino, and where to browse the coolest shops.  

Friday, 6 March

AM

Ease yourself into the Grand Prix atmosphere with a day exploring Armadale and South Yarra. If you’re hunting for a new outfit to complete your F1 look, High Street is your fashion playground for iconic Aussie designers. 

For linens and lighter summery pieces to take you through a hot day trackside, hit Venroy, Assembly Label and Bassike. They nail elevated basics, and their pieces will remain timeless beyond the F1 weekend. 

Back in Albert Park, head over to Stable on Bridgeport Rd for a mix of interesting local and international designers that champion bold silhouettes and bright colourways. 

PM

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a table at France-Soir for a long lunch. In our opinion, the best table is by the front window. It’s available by phone reservation only, so request that spot when you call to book. Order the steak frites (non-negotiable), a crisp glass of French white and a crème brûlée to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Afterwards, head next door to Le Splendide for a martini or a glass of bubbles. With its strict no-phones policy, you can truly be present and savour the moment. 

Friday is also the ideal day to explore the circuit grounds at a more relaxed pace before the competition heats up on Saturday and Sunday. Check out activations, merch pop-ups and of course, the exciting culinary lineup. If you’ve got a day pass, stick around for the live music—Basement Jaxx take the stage on Friday at 6:30pm.

Paddock Style Pick: Pair an oversized linen shirt or ribbed tank with relaxed tailored trousers or bootcut denim, comfortable sneakers and a slouchy over-the-shoulder bag (the bigger the better for all your shopping scores). 

Saturday, 7 March

AM 

Today is about getting extreme—stepping outside your comfort zone and saying yes to the unexpected. Start with a joy flight over Albert Park for a bird’s eye view of the track, the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay (takes 6–8 minutes).

PM

Back on solid ground—and after soaking up the frenzied Qualifying day energy—head to Richmond for a post-Prix early dinner at New Quarter. Andrew McConnell’s modern Southeast Asian menu delivers crowd pleasers like yellow curry with roti, crispy fried chicken and pandan coladas, ideal fuel before a big night out. 

Freshen up with a spritz of Polo Red Extreme by Ralph Lauren before going full throttle into Melbourne’s CBD nightlife. Begin with a round of Martinez’s at Caretaker’s Cottage, with second rounds found a short stroll away at Goldilocks. Finish at HER Music Room for moody techno and late-night dancing–with all tunes played strictly on vinyl. 

Paddock Style Pick: Opt for a slip dress or tailored matching set, leather slingback heels or ballet flats (to slip into the night), a mini over-the-shoulder bag and simple earrings to tie into the party mood. The leather textures pair perfectly with Polo Red Extreme’s signature leathery notes, leaving a lasting impression. 

Sunday, 9 March

AM

Start your engines, it’s race day. Set yourself up for the long day with breakfast bruschetta at Dundas and Faussett. Their chilli scrambled eggs and ricotta hotcakes are perfect pre-race fuel to keep you full into the afternoon. 

Arrive in the morning for the Melbourne Fan Walk at the circuit. It’s a free-access area where drivers and team personnel pass through in the morning—prime territory for spotting Lando Norris and Melbourne’s own Oscar Piastri. Snap photos and soak up the electric race day atmosphere before heading into the racing action. 

PM

Once the race wraps, head back to St Kilda for an early dinner at Yang Thai or Claypots Evening Star for oysters and seafood by the bay. Close out the weekend with sunset drinks along the foreshore at Captain Baxter, and raise a round of spicy margaritas to toast a weekend well spent.

Paddock Style Pick: Stay comfortable with a polo shirt, loose cotton pants and leather sandals. Bonus points for a vintage racing tee, team cap or leather jacket to lean into the sporty spirit—polished enough for lunch, relaxed enough for Captain Baxter cocktails. 

Stay trackside ready this F1 weekend with Polo Red Extreme by Ralph Lauren Fragrances. With bold notes of amber, leather, and woods, it’s a high-octane finishing touch to complement your Grand Prix plans. Explore more here.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Ralph Lauren Fragrances and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.

Image: Urban List.