![\"Model](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/0024c61e-614.jpg\"\/)
\nPhoto Credit: Leon Farrell \/ Photocall Ireland<\/p>\n
Ladies Day at the Gallagher Dublin Horse Show is a time-honoured tradition that brings fantastic fascinators, colourful gowns, sparkling accessories, and undeniable glamour to the RDS.<\/p>\n
This year, the Best Dressed Competition will take place on Thursday, 6 August, with a \u20ac10,000 cash prize awarded to the overall winner.<\/p>\n
This year’s competition, hosted by TV presenter Laura Woods, is set to celebrate individuality, elegance, and the power of personal style.<\/p>\n
\nPhoto Credit: Leon Farrell \/ Photocall Ireland<\/p>\n
The judging panel on the day will include Limerick fashion designer and Poretti Ireland judge Aoife McNamara and renowned fashion expert Bairbre Power, who marks her seventh consecutive year of judging the competition.<\/p>\n
Speaking on what she’ll be looking for in a winner this year, Bairbre said that attention to detail will be key.<\/p>\n
“Every year I’m impressed by the creativity and individuality on display,” she said. “The entrants who really stand out are the ones who stay true to their own sense of style rather than following every trend.<\/p>\n
“Attention to detail is always important, from the fit of your outfit to your accessories and grooming, but confidence is what ties everything together. If you feel comfortable and carry yourself well, it always comes across.”<\/p>\n
![\"model](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/0024c61f-614.jpg\"\/)
\nPhoto Credit: Leon Farrell \/ Photocall Ireland<\/p>\n
As for Aoife McNamara? The designer says she’s looking for contestants who are willing to have fun with their style.<\/p>\n
“I’ll be looking for someone who has a story to tell us through their look, from its fabrics, sustainability and the inspiration of each detail, but most importantly, someone who looks comfortable and ready for a day at the Show.”<\/p>\n
Alongside the grand prize of \u20ac10,000 sponsored by Poretti, stylish attendees can compete for additional coveted awards:<\/p>\n
Best Dressed Runner-Up. Sponsored by InterContinental Dublin, the winner will receive a two-night stay in a one-bedroom suite, with dinner for two on one evening in their new restaurant, Simmons.
\nMost Creative Hat. Sponsored by Ireland’s Blue Book, the winner will receive a \u20ac2,000 voucher offering unparalleled opportunities for unique stays and fine dining experiences across Ireland\u2019s most charming properties.
\nIrish Heritage & Sustainability Style Award. Sponsored by Jack Murphy, the winner will receive a \u20ac1,500 Jack Murphy wardrobe voucher to curate a lasting, heritage-inspired look.
\nBest Classic Elegance. Sponsored by Cashel Palace Hotel, this new award gives the winner an overnight suite stay for two with dinner in the Michelin-starred Bishop\u2019s Buttery and a \u20ac100 voucher for The Boutique at Cashel Palace.<\/p>\n
![\"Model](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/0024c621-614.jpg\"\/)
\nPhoto Credit: Leon Farrell \/ Photocall Ireland<\/p>\n
Speaking on the Most Creative Hat award, Dublin-based milliner Aoife Harrison says that contestants should go all out.<\/p>\n
“For a unique event like the Dublin Horse Show, I would really go all out with your headpiece,” she insists. “It is one of the few events where you can wear a truly special hat, and there are amazing prizes for Best Dressed and Best Hat.<\/p>\n
“When choosing your hat, make sure to try it on with your sunglasses to ensure it sits properly. Hopefully, it will be a sunny day, but sunglasses can sometimes throw off the symmetry of a piece.<\/p>\n
“Additionally, always leave one finger of space above your eyebrow when tilting a hat on your head. You want to see some skin between your eyebrow and the brim, but be careful not to wear it too far back.”<\/p>\n