Race-day fashion highlights
Race day at the Indianapolis 500 wasn’t just about high-speed thrills — it was also a runway of bold, expressive fashion. Fans arrived in droves, dressed to impress with outfits that blended motorsport enthusiasm with high-street flair. The grandstands and infield were awash with vibrant colours, statement accessories, and creative nods to racing culture.
Many attendees embraced the spirit of the event with outfits that featured racing stripes, metallic fabrics, and bold prints. Bright reds, electric blues, and neon greens dominated the colour palette, echoing the energy of the track. Lightweight fabrics and breathable materials were popular choices, helping fans stay cool under the Indiana sun while still looking effortlessly stylish.
Accessories played a major role in elevating race-day ensembles. Wide-brimmed hats, oversized sunglasses, and checkered handbags added a touch of glamour and practicality. Footwear ranged from sleek sneakers to chunky boots, with many opting for comfort without compromising on style.
One standout trend was the use of vintage racing jackets and retro-inspired jumpsuits, giving a nostalgic nod to the sport’s rich history. These pieces were often paired with modern elements like crop tops or high-waisted shorts, creating a unique blend of old and new.
Whether it was a coordinated group look or a solo fashion statement, fans brought their A-game to the Speedway. The fashion on display proved that the Indianapolis 500 is as much about personal expression as it is about horsepower and speed.
Trendsetters in the stands
Among the sea of stylish spectators, a few fashion-forward fans truly stole the spotlight with their daring and distinctive looks. These trendsetters didn’t just dress for the occasion — they redefined what race-day fashion could be. From head-to-toe themed ensembles to unexpected high-fashion twists, their outfits turned the grandstands into a catwalk.
One standout attendee was spotted in a custom-made jumpsuit featuring a patchwork of vintage racing logos, paired with white platform boots and a sleek ponytail. The look was both nostalgic and futuristic, drawing admiring glances from fellow fans and photographers alike. Another fashionista embraced a monochrome palette, donning a tailored black-and-white suit with a checkered tie and matching gloves — a subtle yet striking homage to the iconic racing flag.
Couples and groups also made a splash with coordinated outfits. One trio wore matching bomber jackets emblazoned with their favourite driver’s number, each styled differently to reflect their individual personalities. Another duo turned heads in complementary ensembles: one in a red leather mini dress with racing stripe accents, the other in a crisp white jumpsuit with red piping and aviator sunglasses.
Accessories were key to standing out. Statement earrings shaped like steering wheels, clutches designed to look like mini helmets, and even temporary tattoos of car numbers added flair and fun to the mix. Hair and makeup were equally bold, with checkered nail art, glitter eyeliner, and slicked-back styles completing the looks.
These trendsetters didn’t just follow fashion — they set the pace. Their creativity and confidence brought a fresh energy to the event, proving that the Indianapolis 500 is as much a celebration of style as it is of speed.
Checkered flag-inspired looks
Few patterns are as instantly recognisable and synonymous with motorsport as the classic black-and-white checkered flag — and this year’s Indianapolis 500 attendees took that motif to new fashion heights. From subtle accents to full-on flag-inspired ensembles, the checkered look was everywhere, reimagined in ways that were both playful and polished.
One of the most eye-catching interpretations came in the form of a checkered maxi dress, cinched at the waist with a wide leather belt and paired with chunky black boots. The look was effortlessly cool, blending race-day spirit with street-style edge. Another standout was a cropped checkered blazer worn over a neon green bodysuit, creating a bold contrast that popped against the crowd.
Many fans opted for checkered accessories to add a touch of racing flair without going overboard. Think bucket hats, crossbody bags, and even socks peeking out from under cuffed jeans — all sporting the iconic pattern. One particularly stylish attendee wore a white denim jacket with checkered panels on the sleeves and back, paired with matching high-top sneakers and oversized sunnies for a cohesive, fashion-forward look.
For those who preferred a more minimalist approach, checkered flag prints were incorporated into trims, linings, and even nail art. A popular choice among the crowd was the checkered scarf — tied around the neck, worn as a headband, or looped through belt loops for a casual yet chic touch.
Group outfits also embraced the theme, with friends and families donning coordinated checkered shirts or dresses, often customised with their favourite driver’s number or team colours. The pattern served as a unifying element, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared excitement among fans.
Whether used as a bold statement or a subtle nod, the checkered flag motif proved to be a versatile and stylish choice. It captured the essence of the race while allowing fans to express their individuality — a perfect blend of tradition and trend.
Race-day fashion highlights
Trackside style at this year’s Indianapolis 500 was anything but ordinary, with fashion-forward fans embracing bold choices that rivalled the roar of the engines. The grandstands became a runway of their own, where high-octane glamour met motorsport grit. Think oversized sunnies, wide-brimmed hats, and statement accessories that screamed confidence and charisma.
Checkered prints were a clear favourite, reimagined in everything from tailored jumpsuits to flirty sundresses. One standout look featured a monochrome checkered two-piece set paired with red stilettos — a nod to the iconic racing flag, but with a distinctly feminine twist. Metallics also made a strong showing, with silver and gold accents catching the sunlight and turning heads across the paddock.
Many attendees leaned into retro Americana, channelling vintage pit-crew vibes with high-waisted denim, knotted blouses, and cat-eye sunglasses. Others opted for sleek, modern silhouettes in breathable fabrics — a smart choice under the Midwest sun. Footwear ranged from strappy heels to fashion sneakers, proving that comfort and style can indeed go hand in hand at the track.
Accessories played a starring role, with layered jewellery, logo-emblazoned handbags, and even racing-inspired nail art adding polish to each ensemble. The overall vibe? Effortlessly cool with a touch of drama — perfect for a day where fashion and speed collide.
Standout spectator styles
Among the sea of spectators, a few fashionistas truly stole the spotlight with looks that could’ve graced the pages of a glossy editorial. One standout was a guest in a custom-made jumpsuit featuring a deconstructed checkered motif — the classic black and white reimagined in asymmetrical panels, cinched at the waist with a patent leather belt. She paired it with white ankle boots and a sleek ponytail, giving off serious motorsport muse energy.
Another showstopper was spotted in a vibrant cobalt blue co-ord set, the cropped blazer and mini skirt combo offset by a neon green clutch and matching heels. The bold colour blocking was a refreshing departure from the usual monochromes, and the look was elevated with oversized gold hoops and a swipe of red lipstick — a masterclass in race-day glam.
We also loved the effortless elegance of a linen maxi dress in racing-stripe red, worn with tan gladiator sandals and a straw boater hat. The look was both breathable and chic, ideal for long hours trackside. Her tortoiseshell sunglasses and delicate gold anklet added just the right amount of polish.
For those embracing a more playful aesthetic, one attendee turned heads in a pastel pink romper adorned with tiny embroidered racecars — a whimsical nod to the event. She styled it with platform espadrilles and a mini backpack in metallic rose gold, proving that fun and fashion can absolutely go hand in hand.
- Statement jumpsuits with racing-inspired details
- Colour-blocked co-ords in electric hues
- Breathable maxi dresses with subtle nods to trackside style
- Playful prints and novelty accessories for a youthful twist
It’s clear that for many attendees, the Indianapolis 500 is as much about the fashion as it is about the finish line. The crowd brought their A-game, blending high fashion with trackside practicality in a way that felt uniquely American, yet globally inspiring — and absolutely worthy of the Aussie fashion radar.