Best Dressed competitions at racing events have evolved into significant draws, offering more than just accolades for style. While promoted as celebrations of individuality and personal style, the allure of lucrative prizes, including substantial cash amounts and luxury travel, fuels intense competition among participants.
Events like the Gallagher Dublin Horse Show and the Galway Races offer top prizes of €10,000, attracting contestants who dedicate considerable time and effort to their ensembles. This focus on winning has transformed the competitions into a 'competition within a competition,' as stylist Marietta Doran has noted. The prospect of generous rewards motivates attendees, driving substantial footfall and ensuring strong attendance at racing events. Many successful race meetings now feature these style contests, with men increasingly participating.
Participants often engage in weeks of planning, meticulously coordinating outfits, hats, accessories, and grooming. Some contestants arrive with multiple options, making last-minute decisions after assessing the competition. The financial incentives have fostered a dedicated group of individuals who travel to multiple race meetings annually in pursuit of a win, though they often do not openly admit monetary motivation.
Success in these competitions can significantly boost a winner's public profile, leading to a surge in social media followers. Lisa McGowan, a previous winner at the Galway Races, leveraged her victory into a successful career as an influencer. Aspiring designers and milliners also utilize these events to showcase their work, with accessory designer Kimberley Tino notably featuring her own creations.
Recent Winners and Prizes
Faith Amond, 72, stands out as one of Ireland's most successful participants, with over 50 wins, including a Range Rover Evoque at Aintree in 2017. Recent notable winners include:
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Jeanette Kelly, who won the Dubai Duty Free Best Dressed at the Irish Derby with a blush pink dress and cape by Malva Flores. Her prize included flights to Dubai, a five-night hotel stay, and €1,000 in spending money.
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Róisín Logan secured the Best Dressed title at Gowran Races with a vibrant orange and pink dress. Her winnings comprised a two-night hotel stay with dinner, a €1,000 gift card, and a courtesy car for the weekend.
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Joann Murphy won the McElligot Kia’s Best Dressed at Listowel Races with a white Celia B trouser suit and Carol Kennelly headpiece, earning an all-expenses-paid trip for two to New York.
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Joyce Silva won at Kilbeggan Races with a self-made hat and a Coast dress, receiving a prize package valued at €4,000, including €3,000 cash and various vouchers.
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Lisa Walsh claimed the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Lady Competition at Galway Races with a check dress, winning a €10,000 cash prize.
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Nadine King was last year's victor at the Gallagher Dublin Horse Show, impressing with a retro-style outfit. Registration for the 2026 event is open.
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Tariq Anwar won The K Club’s Most Stylish Racegoer at the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby with a bespoke Irish linen suit, earning a three-night break for two at The K Club.
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Oniesa Owens won the Punchestown Bollinger Best Dressed with a striking navy coat and top ensemble, receiving an exclusive trip for two to the Bollinger Estate.
These competitions continue to be a significant aspect of racing events, merging high fashion with the pursuit of substantial rewards.