Secrets of the Birdcage — and My ‘Date’ with a Marquee Lounge Lizard
The Birdcage returned in full glamour this year at Flemington's Derby Day, marking Melbourne’s first true taste of its pre-pandemic, champagne-fueled energy. For a few thrilling hours, the city seemed to forget its economic anxieties as the lavish marquees dazzled spectators with unrestrained opulence.
Each brand brought its own theatrical flair. Crown, Mumm, Lexus, Don Julio, and TAB appeared to have boosted their budgets, creating an afternoon that glowed with Great Gatsby-style indulgence. The event’s energy was electric, a celebration of elegance and excess in equal measure.
The Ladies’ Room Chronicles
Every good story, the saying goes, begins in the women’s bathroom—and this one was no exception. The air inside was thick with perfume, laughter, and a swirl of gossip. Among the chatter, one marquee revealed a hint of controversy: recreational use of MDMA had quietly resurfaced among certain partygoers.
There, I drifted into a lively conversation about the comeback of polka dots. For ten animated minutes, women debated passionately over the timeless charm of black-and-white versus the bold nostalgia of red. Fashion, clearly, was as competitive as the races themselves.
“The Birdcage is back, baby — and this year it felt like Melbourne’s pre-pandemic, champagne-soaked chaos had finally roared back to life.” — Jana Hocking
Author’s Summary
Jana Hocking captures the exuberant return of Derby Day’s Birdcage, blending social satire, fashion drama, and Melbourne’s love of luxury into one effervescent celebration.