Charlotte Hurley | Meet the 2023 The Ned Prix de Fashion Qualifiers

Charlotte is another one of our very talented first-time qualifiers for The Ned Prix de Fashion after securing her spot on Melbourne Cup Day at Otago Racing Club.

We had the pleasure of chatting with Charlotte ahead of this year’s national final to learn more about her and why fashions in the field is always a good idea…..

A beaming Charlotte after her Melbourne Cup day success

Firstly, congratulations on your first qualification for the The Ned Prix de Fashion national final. We can’t wait to see your entry. Can you tell us a bit about what inspired your outfit that you plan to wear?

Racing fashion epitomises glamour and is probably the only occasion in our wee country where extravagance is embraced and celebrated. My aim was to achieve this but be mindful about my choices and use sustainability as my inspiration. All the pieces which comprise my outfit are vintage or second-hand. I believe that by putting a little more time in, a glamorous and sustainable ensemble can be achieved because classic style is timeless and can transcend trends.

What’s your number rule for a racewear look?

Choose one unique and beautiful piece as the focal point and build the outfit up to compliment that.

What’s your favourite raceday on the calendar?

I lived in Melbourne in my early 20’s and Melbourne Cup Day is a public holiday in Victoria so there was no excuse to not fully embrace the day. It will always be my favourite raceday as it holds so many fun memories. Fashions in the Field will push you a bit outside your comfort zone.. which isn’t a bad place to be sometimes.

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

The Gold Cup at Royal Ascot, simply to admire all the gorgeous millinery and maybe spot a few royals.

The winner-takes-all prize package of The Ned Prix de Fashion features a $5,000 prize from Victoria Racing Club which includes a trip for two to the Melbourne Cup Carnival*. Pictured above are our 2021 and 2022 The Ned Prix de Fashion Supreme Winners taking advantage of this part of the prize on-course at Flemington.

Why should raceday attendees get involved in fashions in the field?

Because it’s a great opportunity to meet and celebrate other like-minded individuals who enjoy the occasion that fashions in the field presents. Also, for most people, entering fashions in the field will push you a bit outside your comfort zone.. which isn’t a bad place to be sometimes.

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

Keep a purse-size sunscreen mist in your purse so you can re-apply over your make-up during the day.

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.