8 Mar
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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 2017 where a very familiar face took out top honours, Hannah Marinkovich.
Here Hannah, a busy new mum and one of our current Auckland Thoroughbred Racing Ambassadors, reflects on how her love of fashion and racing has evolved. With insights on her winning look, advice for first-time competitors, and her role as a judge, Hannah offers a unique perspective on the creativity and excitement of racewear.
Hannahs winning Prix de Fashion outfit in 2017
Where were you in your life when you won The Ned Prix de Fashion? What was happening
for you outside the competition?
I run a marketing agency with my husband, Marco, (currently on maternity leave). So, in 2017 we were focused on growing that as well as planning our wedding for later in the year. I entered my first fashion competition after attending the races for years earlier in the season and won and qualified for The Prix de Fashion final which was cool! Fashion and dressing up are definitely a creative outlet for me.
Looking back at your winning moment, what do you think made your outfit stand out to the judges?
Entering on Derby Day, it was nice to have prequalified and to have been wearing colour. I really should have asked the judges what made the outfit stand out. My favourite part was my wide brimmed hat made by Auckland milliner Claire Hahn.
Carena West and Hannah snapped recently at Twilight raceday.
What’s your favourite memory from the day you won The Prix de Fashion?
It all went so fast, I just remember being so shocked that I won, I really got quite a fright as everyone looked amazing. So that was cool. Also, my husband couldn’t get there in time to watch the final, he nearly made it but arrived just in time to see me with a sash on, getting all the photos at the end which was funny.
What skills or lessons did you gain from competing that you still use today?
I have grown up on stage so that aspect came to me quite naturally. My favourite part of competing and getting into racing fashion would be all the lovely people I have met through it.
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 still run our agency with Marco, although I currently only do several hours a week as we have a little one year old, Mateo. Competing in The Prix de Fashion was such a highlight for me in the racing world, and since 2017 I have been an ambassador for ATR alongside Carena West, Caitlin O’Sullivan and Ryan Teece, which I absolutely love, and I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to do without The Prix de Fashion. I am also honoured to now judge a lot of the fashion competitions including this year’s The Ned Prix de Fashion. I can’t wait to see what the contestants are going to wear this year.
In your opinion, what elements make a standout racewear outfit for the competition?
Originality, and something that really suits the contestant, with their personal style coming through. I also think a high level of attention to detail is very important.
Hannah (far right) posing with fellow judges on Derby Day 2019
What trends or themes do you think will dominate the competition this season?
I am looking forward to seeing what comes through! I think we might see some burgundy and monochrome looks.
How do you think the competition has evolved since you won, and what’s your perspective on the changes?
Every year it gets better and better! ATR navigated the challenges that COVID brought really well and ran digital comps. It’s back in person and better than ever, with a whole dedicated fashion garden. I think it’s becoming more popular and the Kiwi contestants definitely stack up against Australia.
Hannah striking a pose for an ATR ambassador shoot.
What’s the single most important piece of advice you would give to someone competing for the first time?
Be yourself! In your outfit choices, and on stage. If you’re nervous, fake confidence and just have fun.
What’s the funniest or most unexpected thing that happened to you during your competition journey?
Most unexpected was definitely winning The Ned Prix de Fashion!
ATR ambassadors, Carena West and Hannah trackside at Ellerslie.
Have you ever had a ‘wardrobe malfunction’ or a last-minute panic before a competition? How did you handle it?
I actually had a wardrobe malfunction when I won Prix de Fashion, as the fabric added to the top of my dress came unpinned. I think I handled it well as just smiled, put it back and kept on going! The judges did notice though as one mentioned it to me afterwards. These things happen!
What’s next for you in your fashion journey, and how do you stay inspired by racewear today?
I just enjoy dressing up for each raceday by starting with a piece of clothing and go from there. Attending the racedays as well as judging keeps me inspired, as well as following along the local and international competitions. It’s all just so fun.
See the gallery below for more ever-stylish raceday looks from our talented ATR ambassador Hannah.
Think you have what it takes to go down in fashion history like Hannah? 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.
