What to Wear for a "Best Dressed" Day at the Races

The Fabiani Ladies were honoured to attend the Punchestown Races in late April - where our own beautiful Nomi Brennan stole the show at the Bollinger Best Dressed Competition!

We attended as a team, to enjoy a staff day out in this glamorous setting. Those who know us know that we just love an excuse to get dressed up! The Bollinger Best Dressed title is highly coveted erach year at Punchestown, and Nomi’s prize includes flights to Paris, a five star hotel stay, Michelin star dining, and an exclusive champagne Bollinger experience, including a private tour of the vineyard and gardens as well as an overnight stay in the champagne city in Reims. How magical!

Ladies Day at the Races in Ireland is an esteemed event where fashion, elegance, and the thrill of a flutter converge. Ireland’s most stylish women showcase their impeccable style while embracing the traditions and grandeur of the event. As the fashion stakes run high, your outfit should exude sophistication and individuality if you want to make a lasting impression on Ladies Day. Judges assess every element of the winning ensemble from top to toe, including shoes, jewels, bags and adornments - including headpieces or hats. Footwear should strike a balance between style and comfort. Opt for a pair of low-heeled pumps, wedges or sandals that complement the outfit and enable you to move gracefully throughout the day. Remember, it's crucial to prioritize comfort as you'll be spending a significant amount of time on your feet. Ireland's weather can be unpredictable, even on Ladies Day.

Be prepared by considering the prevailing climate. Layer your ensemble with a lightweight wrap, shawl, or tailored jacket as Nomi did, in complementary colors. A well-chosen hat can be the crowning glory - and this can be a statement piece or a subtle complement to your ensemble. If you go for a “big hat” - make sure the brim is wide enough to shield your face from the sun while allowing you to maintain eye contact comfortably. When it comes to handbags, select a small to medium-sized clutch or a crossbody bag that matches or complements your outfit. Practicality is key, as you'll need to carry essentials such as your phone, lipstick, and a little cash to wager on the horse that strikes your fancy! Ladies Day at the racetrack in Ireland is an opportunity to showcase your style and celebrate the thrilling world of horse racing.

By embracing classic elegance with a contemporary twist, you can curate an outfit that exudes sophistication while reflecting your personal flair. Our team arte renowned for our personal styling and assisted shopping services, so we were prepared to meet this challenge! We thought it would be inspiring to share some of the statement pieces we styled for our “Day and the Races” at Punchestown 2023 - read on for more details!

NOMI: Best Dressed Winner

Dress: Claressa dress by Kika Vargas (now sold out - see our Kika Vargas collection here)
Shoes: Julio sandal by Wandler Blazer: Quinn blazer by Anine Bing Hat: Wendy Louise Designs (enquiries to Fabiani.ie)

LOUISE: Best Dressed Finalist
Top: Ter et Bantine Balloon Top (now sold out) Trousers: Ter et Bantine Saffron Trousers (now sold out)
Shoes: MM6 block heel shoe (now sold out - see our MM6 collection here) Hat: Straw Hat by Wendy Louise Designs

JESSICA:
 Top: Simone top Kika Vargas (now sold out- see our Kika Vargas collection here)
Trousers: Hache Cream Trousers (sold out - see our Hache collection here)
Shoes: MM6 Glass slipper Headpiece: Satin Bows by Wendy Louise Designs (enquiries to Fabiani.ie)

URZULA:
Jacket: Anine Bing Diana Blazer Skirt: Anine Bing Mini Skirt (sold out - see our Anine Bing collection here) 
Shoes: Mestizo Black Platform - Marian