Top tips for the ladies ahead of the Kilbeggan races on Saturday

Stylist Marietta Doran has offered top fashion tips for the ladies ahead of Ladies Day at the Kilbeggan Races this Saturday, August 8.

The best dressed lady will receive a fantastic trip to New York to be personally styled by Irish New York fashion designer Jacqueline Quinn, custom designed clothing to the value of €2,500 and €500 worth of Zack Lo designer shoes. The winner and their guest will be flown out by British Airways, including return flights with three nights' accommodation in New York.

Ms Doran is Horse Racing Ireland’s ambassador for Ladies Day events. She has the following advice for ladies heading to the race meeting on Saturday.

1. A headpiece is key for Ladies Day. It doesn’t have to be a wide brimmed hat or too dramatic but if you want to be considered as a Ladies Day finalist, something in the hair is essential.

2. Colour is so important, I would advise everyone to avoid black for Ladies Day. On a sunny day, colourful outfits add to the atmosphere of the races, and on a dreary overcast day they lift spirits and really stand out in the crowd. Colour is a great way to catch a judges eye.

3. Footwear is something that judges put huge emphasis on. We tend to look at the overall look first and then straight to the shoes, so don’t wear anything too clunky or high. Comfort is crucial, and if you aren’t comfortable in your shoes it will show on your face, so find a shoe that fits the look and can withstand the day.

4. Accessories are something to be careful with - As the old adage goes, accessories can make or break an outfit and less really is more. Choose your accessories carefully, and make sure they are functional. If the weather is cool, your cover up should match the look you have chosen and still keep you warm, and your handbag should easily fit the essential survival kit you bring with you.

5. I always look for a lady whose look is simple and classic. A Ladies Day finalist should look chic and timeless, while giving a nod to current trends. I love soft tailoring, and of course colour blocking rather than loud or busy print.

6. Pack a survival kit. It could be a long day at the races, so make sure you have everything you need for Saturday’s event. Include plasters in case those fab new shoes start to bother you, extra clips, a mini-hairspray and needle and thread will all prove very useful, and your Ladies Day companions will be so grateful in case they don’t come as prepared as you.

Ms Doran said the most important thing to remember at Kilbeggan Ladies Day  is to enjoy yourself. The title of course is important and the prizes are fabulous, but everyone should be there first and foremost to enjoy themselves.  Ladies Day is a celebrations of style, and all shapes and sizes and the best accessory of all is definitely a smile. If you are enjoying yourself, you will look well and judges will see that.

Don’t be afraid to put yourself forward for consideration. If you are at Kilbeggan tomorrow and look well, make sure you are seen by the judges. I have been at plenty of racedays where I have seen beautiful looks on my way home in the carpark, and I’ve had to ask the girls where they were all day. So make sure you are on time for Ladies Day, and spend some time near the judges and the activity - Even come and say hello if you like, it’s great to meet people who have a love for style and Ladies Days, she added.