Meath woman wins Best Dressed title at Galway Races

Lisa Walsh, hailing from Dunboyne in County Meath, has been crowned the Best Dressed Lady at the prestigious Galway Races' Ladies' Day event. The competition saw 20 women initially shortlisted by judges who scouted the Ballybrit racecourse throughout the day.

“

Oh this is unreal! After years spent leading horses around the parade ring, I'm literally coming full circle with the full fashion experience.

Walsh's winning outfit featured a dress from the Australian brand 'only one ashley,' complemented by hired accessories including her hat and bag. "Oh this is unreal! After years spent leading horses around the parade ring, I'm literally coming full circle with the full fashion experience," Walsh expressed, marveling at the judges' difficult task of selecting finalists from such a stylish field.

“

I honestly don't know how the judges pick 20 and then 10 finalists. These ladies are all stunning and beautifully styled.

Meanwhile, the Best Hat title was awarded to Maksuda Akhter from Malahide, Dublin. Akhter showcased a striking headpiece by Irish designer Fiona Rafter, an item she had previously worn to promote Irish fashion at the Cannes Film Festival. "To win the Best Hat title was just amazing. I'm just so happy to be showcasing her work," Akhter stated, proud to highlight Rafter's design.

“

My orange shoes are from Fusion Fashion in Moycullen and my bag is hired and my earrings are George Bryan jewellers.

Ladies' Day is a highlight of the weeklong festival, drawing hundreds of attendees eager to impress the judges. The Best Dressed winner receives €10,000, with an additional €3,000 for the Best Hat. Mandy Maher, senior judge and head of Catwalk model agency, noted that identifying potential finalists happens quickly, emphasizing the importance of style and elegance while remaining open to eye-catching outfits among the crowd. The festival itself is a significant economic driver for the region, expected to generate over €60 million.

“

I'm an actress and model and I recently promoted Irish fashion and charities at the Cannes Film Festival. I wore this beautiful headpiece by Irish designer Fiona Rafter and I'm proud that I wore it again at the Galway Races. To win the Best Hat title was just amazing. I'm just so happy to be showcasing her work.