Deborah Lambie | Meet The Ned Prix de Fashion wild cards

Hot on the heels of her stellar fashions in the field victory in the Style Stakes at the Dubai World Cup last month, Deborah has now qualified for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2023. We recently chatted with Deborah about her road to the national fashions in the field final. Read on to find out more…

Deborah’s stunning outfit that qualified her into The Ned Prix de Fashion

Congratulations on qualifying for The Ned Prix de Fashion. This outfit in particular has already had much success with your amazing win in the Dubai World Cup Style Stakes recently. Can you tell us a bit more about how it all came together?

I put this outfit together specifically for the Dubai World Cup last month. I wanted something bold that would really stand out. Claire Hahn did an amazing job of making my millinery which adds a contemporary flavour to the classic silhouette of the Leo & Lin dress. However, getting the belt right for this outfit posed some challenges and I ended up making one from tulle and colouring it to get the perfect shade of green. I added the piece to the front of my bag for extra detail and texture which tied the whole look together. I was so happy with how it all came together and was thrilled to be able to wear it again with the opportunity to qualify as a wild card for The Ned Prix de Fashion.

After visiting the Dubai World Cup, which raceday around the world is next on the bucket list?

I would love to go to the Kentucky Derby one day. The history of the raceday, which goes back to the 1870s, is fascinating and it has really grown in popularity since then, to be known today as the ‘best two minutes in sport’. Going there with friends would be an incredible time.

Deborah winning Best Dressed Lady at the Dubai Style Stakes 2023

What’s your number one rule for a racewear look?

The most important thing to me is that I love my outfit and that I feel comfortable and confident in it.

Is it all about the ‘sash’? What keeps you entering fashions in the field competitions?

Rather than being all about the sash for me, I like to think of fashions in the field as a good excuse to get dressed up and have a fun day out with friends. If you end up doing well, then that’s an added bonus to an already great day out.

Are there any trends you’ve seen on the runway or high street this year that you’d like to see make an appearance on the racing fashion stage?

I saw photos of an amazing skirt suit on the runway at the Lexus Melbourne Cup last year – it would be great to see more of these on the racing fashion stage going forward.

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

Fashions in the field is a fun addition to what is already a great day out at the races. It means you end up dressing up more than you would otherwise and inevitably wearing something more fun. Plus, you get the chance to make new friends and if you are very lucky you might win some amazing prizes.

And finally, what’s your top tip for a great day at the races?

A good tip (that I always keep in mind) is to be on time and allow enough time to get ready. I’ve cut it a bit fine a few times which meant I was getting ready in an unnecessary rush!