The 2022 Dublin Horse Show made a grand return to the RDS this week following a two-year break due to Covid-19.
Running since 1864, the event is famous for its international show jumping competitions, entertainment, food, festivities and, of course, its renowned Ladies' Day competition.
Taking place from 17th – 21st August, the Ladies' Day competition made its return today under the watchful eyes of lead judge, Bairbre Power, fashion editor at the Irish Independent, and top UK fashion designer Olivia Rubin.
The annual competition saw some updates this year as, for the first time in the history of the Dublin Horse Show, it became open to everyone and anyone who would wish to enter - regardless of gender.
New sponsors Very (along with their trusty MC Paul Ryder) were on hand to crown the winners of this year's colourful event.
In the end, Tiffany Yang Fei was crowned 'Very Best Dressed' and walked away with a €10,000 Very.ie gift card. Tiffany from Dalkey, Co Dublin, repurposed a dress that she had in her wardrobe for a few years and said: "I can't believe this happened, I am so happy. I made my hat myself, which is to symbolise life blooming again after Covid."
Judges Bairbre Power and designer Oliva Rubin said of the winning look: "It was outstanding, and it was ethereal!"
Just under 400 people took to the Very.ie stage and shared their look with MC Laura Woods and Ru Paul Ryder. This year emphasis was placed on gender equality and inclusivity.
Ru Paul Ryder said: "I am so excited to see the glamour on the runway and I’m so happy to be involved with Very. I am a big follower of fashion and ladies’ fashion in particular - I dress up as a sort of woman for a living! For the first time ever, the Very Best Dressed award will be open to everyone, no matter gender, and that’s a big thing for me. To be part of something so iconic is really amazing!"
The four highly commended awards went to Oyiuclamola Animashaun from Blanchardstown, who won a €1,000 voucher sponsored by Benefit Cosmetics; Vilhelmiina Huuskonen from Phibsboro, who won a €1,000 voucher sponsored by CLOUDNINE; Mary O’Halloran, from Finglas, and Mary Stapleton-Foley, from Killarney, both won a €1,000 Very.ie gift card.
The Longines 'Elegance is an Attitude’ winners were Stuart Montgomery from Mullingar, Co Westmeath and Joanne Eve Byrne from Naas, Co Kildare. They won a model from the La Grande Classique de Longines Collection and a model from the Longines Spirit Collection.
Speaking ahead of the big reveal, Bairbre Power gave some tips for those who may want to try their hand at future events.
"My top tip is chose an outfit that really reflects your personality rather than what you think the judges might be looking for," she said.
"It’s always good to turn heads with bold colours and striking, smart tailoring. Embracing vintage always provides a point of difference but maybe do it with a modern twist."
"It’s always tempting to really push the boat out and try and create an outstanding look to win the €10k prize," she added.
"Getting the balance right between outfit and accessories is half the fun but don’t be tempted to ‘gild the lily’ because you have three years of dressing up to make up for.
"Yes, Ladies' Day is a spectacle. It is an iconic moment in annual fashion calendar but don’t throw the kitchen sink at it and do remember, it’s a daytime event, so no ballgowns or black tie, please."
Finally, she shared an important note on comfort.
"This is not the day to start breaking in the new shoes or trying to climb back into those vertiginous heels after two years of constant trainers," she said.
"There is nothing worse than seeing someone beautifully dressed but hobbling onto the stage because their heels are blistered and sore and believe me, it really does show on your face."
