Q. My boyfriend has asked me to accompany him the Galway races on July 29th and, although I’m really looking forward to the event, I am also completely at a loss as to what to wear. Because we are going on Ladies Day, I feel as if I really have to dress to impress, which is difficult as I am on a tight budget. Can you suggest a look that will wow my boyfriend - and the judges - without spending a fortune?
A. Tens of thousands of women are due to make the annual pilgrimage down to the Ballybrit racecourse in Galway later this month for the annual battle of hats and outfits that is Ladies' Day. From the elegant to the elaborate to the downright unconventional, Ballybrit has long been the race meet where women indulge the more flamboyant side of their sartorial tastes.
Take a look at our gallery of purse-friendly pieces which are perfect for ladies day.
And this year, the total prize fund for the Anthony Ryan Best Dressed Lady competition has increased to an impressive €20,000 so you can expect the competition to be incredibly stiff, with women from all around Ireland doing their very best to win the top prize. Finding a winning outfit for the Galway races on a budget is the ultimate style challenge but, thankfully, the Irish high street is awash with gorgeous occasionwear that won’t necessarily break the bank.
Debehhams is always my first port of call when it comes to getting great looks for summer weddings or race meets because they stock vibrant hats of every shape and size and fabulous dresses and accessories to boot. Monsoon, Karen Millen and Coast are also well worth checking out, as their elegant day and eveningwear always makes a winning look. But if your budget does not quite stretch that far, you can always try picking up something special in your local charity shop, clothes swap party or Ebay.
Judging by previous Ladies Day winners, a simple dress with a great hat seems to be the winning combination. But it’s how you accessorise your look that seems to make all the difference. I am delighted that gloves are making a comeback - they were on the catwalk at everywhere from Chanel to Dior and sported by the Madame Sarkozy - as they immediately up the ante of any outfit. Remember to keep them short, leather and in a really hot colour.
Shoes that are too high fashion have no place at the races as spiky stilettos will only sink into the grass. A slim platform is fine, but a wedge is too clumpy for a formal occasion and don’t even think about wearing sandals or flip flops. Instead, opt for a mid-heel with a pretty pointy toe as this is the most flattering and elegant style.
Keep your bag small, neat and classic leaving any gaudy or dated ‘It’ bags at home. There is no excuse for not buying a decent hat: try Accessorise, Debenhams, Marks and Spencer or the marvellous, Mad Hatter in Dublin’s Steven Street if you want to make a real style statement.
If you are feeling crafty, you can always make your own fascinator. Not only is it incredibly easy, it’s also great fun and a fraction of the cost of a shop bought one.
Fascinator bases are available in many haberdashery stores such as The Dublin Woollen Mills or Hickys and you can custom make your own creation to suit your outfit by adding roses, beads, lace, feathers - or whatever else tickles your fancy.
Having worked as a stylist for well over a decade I’ve come to realise that too much going on around the head always looks dreadful; so if you are wearing a large hat, keep your necklace and earrings low key and discreet.
Don’t wear linen: it creases and adds pounds. Far better is really good silk chiffon which, unlike silk jersey, doesn’t reveal lumps and bumps either. A trouser suit is acceptable, but make sure it is beautifully tailored, not shapeless and baggy. Black and navy suits are too severe for a Ladies Day, so try a soft colour, or wear a tux if you really want to stand out from the crowd.
If you are looking for a little inspiration, I’ve put together some budget looks in our gallery and included a link to wonderful You Tube video that shows you, step by step, how to make a head turning headpiece. Trust me - the results will be spectacular.
How to make a fascinator You Tube tutorial.
