17 May
-
100 Ascot Avenue, Remuera, Auckland
- 09 524 4069
Among the many beautifully dressed participants, it was Danni Alfeld, representing Canterbury Jockey Club, who won the 20th edition of New Zealand’s racewear final here at Ellerslie on Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day, Saturday 8th March.
Danni’s bold and unique pantsuit, complemented by stunning millinery and thoughtful accessories, captivated the judges and the audience alike. Her journey to this prestigious win has been a whirlwind of creativity, preparation, and heartfelt moments, making her triumph all the more special.
Post her exciting win, Danni shares the emotions that came with her victory, the inspiration behind her winning ensemble, and the challenges she faced along the way. Danni’s passion for New Zealand’s vibrant racewear culture shines through as she reflects on her journey and looks ahead to new opportunities on the horizon.
Congratulations on winning The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025. How did it feel when your name was announced as the winner?
I was just in shock really, there were so many amazing ladies competing I really couldn’t believe I had won.
The moment Danni was announced as winner of The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025.
What emotions ran through your mind?
I was so surprised and very ecstatic, it took a while to sink in, it’s still sinking in, I think!
How did you celebrate after the competition?
We went back to our hotel and had a drink with some other South Island ladies that competed.
A jubilant Danni on the competition runway following her win alongside Siobhan Wilson of The Ned / Marisco
What does winning this prestigious competition mean to you?
I have only been competing in raceday fashion in the field competitions for two years, so to win this I am over the moon. I am very proud to have represented Canterbury Jockey Club and look forward to giving back to the club and fashion in the field events in the future.
Danni following her qualifying win at Riccarton Park in November 2024
Can you share any memorable or unexpected moments from the competition day that stood out to you?
I went to the bathroom which is no easy feat in a jumpsuit, Mum turned on the tap and it splashed all over my outfit! She had to quickly go down and get the steamer we had bought and steam me in the suit to dry off the water marks, the looks we got in the stand with a plugged in steamer were priceless, however not ideal 10 minutes before the semi-final heat!
What was the inspiration and creative process behind your winning ensemble?
I planned this for months with the help of my Mum. We spent hours looking at different outfits and styles, I wanted something that was different to what is usually worn, fun, unexpected and which really appealed to me.
The pantsuit I wore just jumped out to me when I saw it. I had the neckline altered to what I know suits me. Once I had decided on the pantsuit, I was lucky enough to find stunning millinery which was just perfect to complement my style. I gathered the finishing touches from various New Zealand sources.
Judges and MC of The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025, (L to R) Aleisha Mitchell, Hannah Marinkovich, Carena West, Jill Humphries, Lou Heller and Sarah Stuart
What elements or themes did you aim to showcase?
When I qualified, I knew then I wanted to create a unique look. I went through photos of previous qualifiers and winners to see the different styles. I wanted to incorporate surprise, boldness, and individuality.
How long did it take to prepare for the competition, and what were some of the challenges you faced during the process?
We started looking at ideas after I won at Riccarton. It took a while for us to find the look that I was after, from there, it was finding the accessories to complete the overall look. This did take a while as I wanted to have a few options to choose from.
Sometimes it is not until you try it all on together that you can decide on the finer details.
Details are everything. Back view of Danni’s winning look from The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025.
How do you ensure your personal style shines through while also meeting the judging criteria for a competition like this?
From the time I qualified I knew I wanted to wear something different and create an overall look of sophistication while creating a bold statement. I believe it is important to wear something you love as this will come through in how you present yourself on stage. You need to wear the outfit, not have the outfit wearing you.
How has New Zealand’s unique fashion landscape influenced your style and approach to racewear?
I have always admired New Zealand fashion and how racewear pushes boundaries and people take risks and evolve. I have loved studying the changing styles and developing the confidence myself to take risks of my own to portray my style.
Danni on The Ned Prix de Fashion runway at Ellerslie on 8 March
Are there local designers or milliners that inspire you?
I have worked with some amazing milliners over the past two years, each for a different look I was wanting to create.
What advice do you have for anyone wanting to compete in The Ned Prix de Fashion 2026?
Start thinking about it now, look at trends overseas to see what will be in fashion in our summer season. Find someone you trust to offer an honest opinion and enjoy every moment. Good luck!
The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025’s Grand Finalists – (L to R) Sarah Morris, Eleanor Campbell, Danni Alfeld, Sheree Sheehan, Kylie Hayes
What’s next for you after the competition?
I am hoping to compete in Melbourne at the end of this year and commence judging at some stage in the future.
Danni’s win in The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 saw her take away a prize package that not only included the all-important sash, a trophy, magnum of The Ned Rosé and bragging rights to being the country’s best dresser racegoer for 2025 but also…
$15,000 in prizes from The Ned:
$500 voucher for SkyCity Auckland
x10 Deluxe Tan Pack valued at $450 from Tan In The City
