Celebrities, influencers and anyone else who’s nabbed a ticket to the exclusive area at Flemington Racecourse must abide by a strict set of rules.

Unfortunately for the smartly dressed man I watched get rejected on Tuesday morning – it appears it is non-negotiable.

In a very Australian move, the dress code even includes the definition of thongs.

That is shoes that have “two straps which connect in between the first and second toes,” in case you were wondering – and it’s a big no.

Other clothing deemed unacceptable is denim of any kind and torn clothing, “even if considered designer”.

While you will spot a few bold suits in the general area, men in The Birdcage are forbidden from rocking bright or fluorescent attire.

And with the wet weather expected to top a lousy 14C, it is not just a case of race goers grabbing a jacket as they head to the track.

The extensive list of unacceptable items includes parkas, duffle coats, windbreakers, tracksuits tops, golf and yachting weatherproofs, denim jackets, casual or untailored leather jackets, anoraks and Driza-Bone (oilskin) jackets.

The gentlemen list adds waist-length jackets.

And don’t even think about trying a beanie.

Full list

Not acceptable for ladies

• Any form of the following footwear: joggers, sports shoes, track shoes, runners, slippers, dilapidated footwear, gumboots or thongs. A shoe is…