Local woman wins Sustainable Style Contest at Kilbeggan Races

A local woman emerged victorious from the sustainable style ladies day competition at the Kilbeggan Races last Friday, July 12.

Kilbeggan native Katie Moran impressed judges with her initiative, having purchased a vintage Ralph Lauren dress from Oxfam and crafting her own belt to match.

Her headpiece was hired from Karen Edell in Tullamore, and her handbag and gloves were borrowed, with the latter lent by her granny.

Ms Moran received prizes valued at €5,000 for her efforts, including €2,000 in cash and vouchers for Ennell Jewellers, Cheveux Hair Salon, and Browns on the Green.

The competition was judged by local media personality Sarah Jane Foster, who was delighted for this year's winner.

“It was her first time to enter and I personally learned so much from her style and creativity,” she said.

“Katie stood out for me from the start; she was fabulous, and her outfit was head-to-toe sustainable, even making her own belt – I was so impressed.

“I loved her dress with the black and white combination, and she is such a lovely person. Even better, she's local.”

Ms Foster said there was an “incredible” level of interest.

“I gave out about 80 wristbands to those with the top style, but there were about 250 to 300 women dressed up for it,” she said.

“All of the finalists were amazing and of all ages; we even had two fabulous ladies in their 70s.

“One lady mentioned wearing her dress to her child’s confirmation decades ago, and another had a handbag she brought to her first Kilbeggan Races 20 years ago.”

The next meeting of the Kilbeggan Races is on July 26.