Celeste Stark | Meet the 2023 The Ned Prix de Fashion Qualifiers

Celeste Stark represents her local track, Pukekohe Park, in The Ned Prix de Fashion after triumphing at Counties Cup Day. Keep reading to learn more about her fashions in the field journey thus far…

Celeste oncourse at Pukekohe Park

How long have you been entering fashions in the field (FITF) competitions?

I first entered a competition at Pukekohe Park which I won and it took me into the national final at Ellerslie in 2011. I have just started back entering again in the last couple of years, inspired by being able to enter virtually during lockdowns.

Celeste’s entry into one of ATR’s most recent virtual fashions in the field compeitions

Entries are nearly due for this year’s The Ned Prix de Fashion! What can we expect from your outfit?

I have chosen to take a risk with a different silhouette and colour choice for me, I was wanting to explore new shapes that I haven’t worn in the past.

One of Celeste’s gorgeous looks

What’s your favourite trend you are seeing in racing fashion at the moment?

I am loving all the different dress lengths and the beautiful bright fabric colours.

Do you have a fashion icon when it comes to racewear?

I don’t have one fashion icon but I love following designers and fashion accounts on Instagram. I have a phone full of images and screenshots that inspire me!

Can you tell us a little bit about the outfit you qualified in?

I wore a custom-made red and white striped pencil dress with a large statement bow on the back of the dress. My millinery was a white and red large bespoke boater.

I was fabric shopping with my Mum and the stripey fabric just spoke to us as it isn’t just a normal stripe. I absolutely loved this dress, especially the bow!

A closer look at Celeste’s qualifying outfit

What’s your top tip for a day at the races?

Wear comfortable shoes! Make sure you think about your outfit from head to toe, accessories are as important as the dress.

Is it all about the ‘sash’? What keeps you entering FITF competitions?

We all love a sash but FITF competitions are an awesome place to meet new friends, the ladies are always so fun and friendly and encouraging. It is great to talk fashion with like-minded ladies.

What’s your number rule for a racewear look?

Love what you are wearing! When you love what you are wearing your personality and confidence shines through.

What’s your favourite raceday on the calendar?

Always love Counties Cup Day at Pukekohe Park, having a local race meet makes it more special.

Celeste took out the Best Dressed Local Lady at Counties Cup Day 2020

How do you think Kiwi racewear differs from that around the world?

I think we love colour and aren’t afraid to take risks.

If you could visit any raceday in the world, which one would it be?

I would love to go to a Raceday in Dubai to experience the culture, fashion and fireworks.

The Ned Prix de Fashion is New Zealand’s national fashions in the field final. There’s still time to enter the opening round with entries closing on the 23rd of April.