Celebrating 20 years of style: Standout winners from The Ned Prix de Fashion | Claudia Campbell

Amongst the elegance and excitement of Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day on March 8th, The Ned Prix de Fashion celebrates two decades as New Zealand’s premier fashions-in-the-field competition.

For 20 years, this iconic event has drawn the country’s most stylish racegoers to the runway, each vying for the prestigious title of Supreme Winner and a place in fashion history.

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 2013, when a 20-year-old fine arts student named Claudia Campbell—a surname now synonymous with racewear fashion—was crowned our national title winner.

Claudia’s winning The Ned Prix de Fashion outfit in 2013

Claudia’s creative flair and eye for bold details helped her secure the coveted title. Now a florist specializing in event and wedding floral and often collaborating with race clubs, she reflects on her journey from competitor to creative professional.

Where were you in your life when you won The Ned Prix de Fashion? What was happening for you outside the competition?

I was 20 at the time and studying for my Bachelor of Media Arts majoring in Fine Arts.

Looking back at your winning moment, what do you think made your outfit stand out to the judges?

My outfit may have stood out because we added another colour with the traditional black and white for Derby Day.

What’s your favourite memory from the day you won The Ned Prix de Fashion?

My biggest memory was being in shock that I had won, I wasn’t expecting it at all!

What skills or lessons did you gain from competing that you still use today?

I think every time you enter a races fashion competition you gain experience and more confidence.

Claudia with sister and fellow The Ned Prix de Fashion winner, Eleanor

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 am now a florist and also supply event florals and weddings, often supplying flowers for the local race club in the Waikato and other events in the racing sector so this has been a great connection for me.

In your opinion, what elements make a standout racewear outfit for the competition?

Something eye catching and original!

Claudia’s creative talents clearly blossom on and off the runway

What trends or themes do you think will dominate the competition this season?

I am always keen to see what colours are in for the season but I think knowing what colours suit your own tones and personality is the most important.

How do you think the competition has evolved since you won, and what’s your perspective on the changes?

The Prix competition was the one to win in New Zealand way back when I won and I’m pretty sure it’s still the one everyone wants to tick off and take the title!

It’s in the genes. Along with mum, Anna, and sister, Eleanor, the Campbells have become a force to be reckoned with in both the NZ and international racewear scene

What’s the single most important piece of advice you would give to someone competing for the first time?

The best advice I think is to try and take your time on stage, look up not down, show off your outfit and have fun.

What’s the funniest or most unexpected thing that happened to you during your competition journey?

I have recently had a Marilyn Monroe moment with wind right in front of the judges on stage – so always make sure your underwear matches your outfit!

Have you ever had a ‘wardrobe malfunction’ or a last-minute panic before a competition? How did you handle it?

I’m pretty sure I’ve had a hat blow off before as most competitors have probably had at some stage too, even the best load of hat pins can be no match for a good gust!

Claudia snapped on Derby Day 2018

What’s next for you in your fashion journey, and how do you stay inspired by racewear today?

I’ve recently returned to competing in the last year and enjoying getting race ready again. I’m not sure when my next competition will be, I’m not completely addicted like some but I’m having fun turning up every now and then.

And ‘return’ she did. In 2024, Claudia secured third place overall in the prestigious Best Dressed Fashions on the Field competition on Oaks Day during the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington

Below we’ve put together a gallery of some of Claudia’s gorgeous raceday ensembles. We can’t wait to see what she does next!

Think you have what it takes to go down in fashion history like Claudia? 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.