Widely renowned as 'Ladies Day' at the Galway Races, Thursday traditionally combines the very best in horse racing and fashion with spectators wearing jaw-dropping outfits in a bid to win the title of 'Best Dressed'.
Despite this year's event having to adjust to the current COVID restrictions, with entrants encouraged to take part from the comfort and safety of their own home, the annual competition went down a treat, with online influencer and model Louise O'Reilly on hand to judge this year's looks.
Beating out some tough competition, fashion enthusiast Hayley Coleman from Mayo was announced as the winner of the Her Virtual Best Dressed competition at the Galway Races thanks to her eye for detail.
Speaking on the winning look, Judge Louise O'Reilly said: "This year's winner really stood out for me and someone with great taste and style - teaming a perfect balance of chic tailoring with such an incredibly detailed and interesting head piece - all perfectly completed with the right accessories too."
Hayley wore a stunning Kevan Jon dress from Harper Galway and TK Maxx sandals and bag. Hayley's look struck the perfect balance between chic tailoring and eye-catching accessories.
The Mayo woman's striking Tina Hemlock crown headpiece finished off the look, featuring hand crafted rose gold flowers and neutral feathers to finish.
Her winning look earned her a two night deluxe stay at Fota Island Resort and Spa including dinner, breakfast and spa treatments.
Elsewhere, Melissa McGirr from Tyrone was awarded the prestigious Best Hat accolade during today’s competition.
Turning heads in her bespoke Ashleigh Myles creation, Melissa’s winning hat was an orange spiked cable ties headpiece, made from over 300 hand-painted recycled cable ties on a base of orange brocade fabric.
Embracing sustainability, Melissa’s hat was inspired by the Going Green Initiative for Ireland, and the same fabric was used by Irish designer Linda at designed4u to create a matching handbag.
Melissa walks away with a luxury two night stay at Wineport Lodge in Westmeath, including a lake view room, prosecco on arrival, dinner and spa thermal access.
Speaking about this year's competition, O'Reilly said: "It was so wonderful to see everyone take part today both virtually and at the Galway races and I’m beyond thrilled to have been the judge this year."
"It was such a difficult task narrowing down even a top five, yet alone picking a winner! The sense of style was truly fabulous and I was really impressed by the attention to detail from everyone."
Check out www.galwayraces.com for more information on both ladies’ fashion competitions.
