Nova Birrell’s family-inspired triumph

First-time entrant Nova Birrell claimed the 2026 Best Dressed title with a look inspired by old English films in which horses, fashion and racing took centre stage. Her dress, hat and bag came together in an outfit that was polished, romantic and quietly nostalgic. The fabric was an unexpected Spotlight find, much to Birrell’s own surprise.

It was a labour of love, taking several months to create with help from her mother and grandmother. They reworked a pattern to make the dress, and her nan began with a simple straw sun hat, then transformed it with fabric and a brooch.

“I’m always relying on my nan for pieces that I need reworked and altered,” said the graphic design student. “It’s just a skill that that older generation has that’s incredible.”

The family collaboration made the victory especially meaningful, but Birrell was equally struck by the warmth and generosity of her fellow competitors.

“I am awed by the creative looks put together and the effort put in by everyone who entered. I’m especially taken by the spirit of each competitor I spoke to, the genuine good luck given to one another behind the stage,” she said.

Cup Day finalist Erin Smith claimed second place in a sheer floral cape and skirt by Romance Was Born. The painterly print of reds, pinks and yellows moved beautifully with every step. “I adored this cape and skirt by Romance Was Born. It balanced so beautifully with my Peacock Millinery,” she said.

A sculptural burgundy headpiece brought depth to the palette, while a vintage pink-fringed bag borrowed from a friend added a personal touch. Pink strappy heels completed the ensemble.

Crown Oaks Day finalist Selina McCloskey rounded out the podium in third place, bringing another treasured family piece into the spotlight.

Still to come: The Remix

Fashions on the Field isn’t over yet. On TAB Champions Stakes Day, Saturday 7 November, the carnival concludes with the inaugural Fashions on the Field: The Remix presented by Rack It Club.

The new competition celebrates creativity, individuality, and conscious fashion choices through three pillars: Rewear, showcasing vintage, archival, and rental pieces; Rework, for customised, upcycled, and reinvented looks; and Restyle, rewarding fresh, modern interpretations of racewear.

Entrants can compete in two categories: Best Dressed: The Remix and Best Suited: The Remix.