IT’S time for a fashion respite. Siem Reap is one of those easy cities where going to the effort of ironing a clean pair of jeans might validly be counted as ‘dressing up’ for a Saturday night out on the town. But many women in town still love an occasion for hauling out a frock and donning heels not normally compatible with broken footpaths and riding motorbikes or bicycles.

And even some guys may cherish the occasion to break out the suit that’s long been lurking in the back of the wardrobe.

Luckily, the staff at Fresh at Chilli Si Dang have raced ahead of the pack to provide just such an occasion tomorrow evening, November 6, when they host a special night out to commemorate the renowned Melbourne Cup Crown Oaks Day.

The Melbourne Cup, which was held on Tuesday, is Australia’s biggest thoroughbred horse race, billed as “the celebration that stops a nation”, and Oaks Day is the most glamorous day in the Cup season. It is a huge fashion shindig, when frou frou positively rules, and calls on women from all over to get involved, put their most elegant foot forward, and make a bold fashion statement.

Making his own statement, Chilli Si Dang chef Tony Donovan says, “Girls, get your glad rags on and place your bets for a great evening of fashion and entertainment, and of course, to help to support our local charities.”

At least five of the Crown Oaks Day races will be shown, and a sweepstake will take place for each race. Half of the money from the sweep will go to support the charity ABCs & Rice, as well as education and local development projects, while the other half will go to the lucky winner.

There will also be a fashion show with clothes from Bubble Tea and from Circle Boutique, which will be shown on a catwalk on the riverbank.

Adding some extra bubble to the overriding air of class, Celliers d’Asie is sponsoring the night, so there will be wine and Champagne promotions. Food from the new Fresh at Chilli Si Dang menu will also be available. Jump out of the starters’ gates any time from 7:30pm onwards.