17 May
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100 Ascot Avenue, Remuera, Auckland
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This prestigious competition, synonymous with sophistication and creativity, continues to be the ultimate showcase of racewear excellence. With a coveted sash and an impressive prize package on the line, The Ned Prix de Fashion remains the pinnacle of style on New Zealand’s racing calendar.
As we mark this incredible milestone, we take a look back at some of the competition’s standout winners—celebrating their unique journeys, unforgettable ensembles, and the legacy they’ve left on this beloved event. And with that, let’s take a sashay down memory lane to 2019 where Aleisha Mitchell was named fairest of them all in The Ned Prix de Fashion.
Fun Fact. Aleisha qualified for The Ned Prix de Fashion final on the day in our ‘wild card’ competition.
Aleisha Mitchell is a familiar face in the racewear scene, with earlier wins at the Boxing Day Races in 2007 and 2017. A dedicated mother of two and now a personal stylist, Aleisha reflects on her experiences, offering advice for aspiring competitors, insights into racewear trends, and a
glimpse into the evolution of the competition.
Where were you in your life when you won The Ned Prix de Fashion? What was happening for you outside the competition?
In March 2019, I was a busy mum of my two girls who at the time were two years and five months old.
Looking back at your winning moment, what do you think made your outfit stand out to the judges?
It was a very definite two-piece set where dresses often dominate the catwalk.
Aliesha owning the catwalk in The Ned Prix de Fashion 2019.
What’s your favourite memory from the day you won The Ned Prix de Fashion?
Breastfeeding my five month old backstage. It’s always much a buzz of energy around the fashion tent but I found myself in a moment of calm and got to share a special moment with her.
What skills or lessons did you gain from competing that you still use today?
Great things happen when you push yourself outside your comfort zone. It may not be a top five finish or a prize but something else magic, a new friendship formed with the lady standing nervously next to you backstage, confidence to stand in front of a crowd and do a twirl, graciously taking compliments from strangers around the course as they acknowledge the effort and energy you have poured into your outfit.
Aleisha’s smile says it all after winning top honours.
What are you up to these days? Has your involvement in The Ned Prix de Fashion opened new doors for you in the fashion world or beyond?
I work in fashion. The majority of my career has been in offshore manufacturing, but I have started personal styling in recent years and have never felt so fulfilled in my job as I do when I’m working one on one with clients. Judging the FOTF events now feels like a real honour.
In your opinion, what elements make a standout racewear outfit for the competition? When you see someone so confident and at ease in what they are wearing. You will often hear judges say that she had ‘presence’ on stage. When there’s a dozen gorgeous outfits up there all at once, it’s your shoulders back and chin raised that will put you a foot ahead of the rest.
Aleisha is now a regular on our Ellerslie judging panels.
What trends or themes do you think will dominate the competition this season?
In regards to trends, I definitely feel bows are going to have a strong presence, whether embellished with ribbons or jewelled bows or large fabric bow styling details on garments. Leather and iridescent fabrics will be a clever way to stand out in the crowd.
Aleisha looking on as competitors take to the catwalk.
How do you think the competition has evolved since you won, and what’s your perspective on the changes?
There’s more emphasis on being unique and letting your own personality show through in your outfit opposed to following strict rules, formula dressing and outdated skirt lengths. Headwear has deviated so far from the traditional regular shapes and now at times represents sculptural art, it’s such a wonderful way to mix up the composition of an outfit and emphasise different elements, be bold and stand out.
What’s the single most important piece of advice you would give to someone competing for
the first time?
Derby Day 2024 with fellow judges (from left) Sarah Stewart, Justine Seabrook and Carena West
Make your number one goal for the day to be to have fun and enjoy yourself. Those two things you can control.
Have you ever had a ‘wardrobe malfunction’ or a last-minute panic before a competition? How did you handle it?
Too many to count. I always carry needle and thread in my handbag and it’s normally me stitching someone else’s outfit opposed to my own.
What’s next for you in your fashion journey, and how do you stay inspired by racewear
today?
I feel so blessed to be doing my styling work and am focusing on growing this over the next few years as my girls get older and I have more capacity in my days. Raceway fashion inspires me in the fact I get to see everyday women and men participate in something so creative, it’s a chance to express yourself a little more through your clothes than you possibly normally would. I know first-hand how much courage it takes to get up on that stage, I also know how much they can gain from the whole experience so I both admire and applaud them.
A closer look at the details from Aleisha’s 2024 Derby Day outfit.
Here are more of Aleisha’s stunning past looks, showcasing just how effortlessly stylish our gorgeous judge truly is.
Think you have what it takes to go down in fashion history like Aleisha? The Ned Prix de Fashion finals are happening THIS Saturday, March 8 on Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day at Ellerslie. Although entry into The Ned Prix de Fashion is by pre-qualification only, four lucky women will have ONE final chance to qualify as ‘wild cards’ for the final in the ForEver SOPHIE Permanent Jewellery Fashion Qualifiers. See our website for more details.
