17 May
-
100 Ascot Avenue, Remuera, Auckland
- 09 524 4069
Entry into the competition is by pre-qualification, with contestants needing to have won a qualifying event held throughout the country this past season to secure their spot. The final pre-qualifying event, the forEVER SOPHIE Permanent Jewellery Fashion Qualifiers, takes place this Saturday, March 8, here at Ellerslie on Barfoot & Thompson Champions Day, offering four women a final ‘wild card’ chance to compete in The Ned Prix de Fashion final and win $1,000 each from forEVER SOPHIE.
The competition will then culminate in a runway show, where judges will select five Grand Finalists, with the Supreme Winner taking home $15,000+ in prizes from The Ned, SkyCity Auckland and Tan in the City.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of The Ned Prix de Fashion, and before the 11 pre-qualifiers hit the runway, we wanted to get to know them a little better. We’ve put a few questions to the finalists to learn more about how they got here and what’s in store. Read on for a closer look at the women who are ready to compete for the coveted title of New Zealand’s most fashionable racegoer.
2024 The Ned Prix de fashion Supreme Winner, Sasha Boyens
Diana Hampton
Qualified: Bayleys Community Carnival Raceday
Representing: Tauranga Racing Club
Diana Hampton, a designer, seamstress, and proud mother, is representing Tauranga in The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025. Qualifying at Tauranga’s inaugural regional event, Diana is no stranger to hard work and creativity, spending countless hours crafting her standout race day look, which is a family affair.
Here’s a bit more about Diana…
What inspired you to participate in the regional qualifiers for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 and how did you prepare for it?
I was over the moon when I found out that Tauranga had been added as a qualifier for The Ned Prix de Fashion. I knew at that point I wanted to be the one to grab that qualifying spot. I spent endless hours sketching, designing and researching what I thought would be a standout design before I went on the hunt for the perfect fabric and colour combination.
Can you tell us about the journey of creating or selecting your outfit for the competition and what was your main inspiration?
I design and sew my own raceday looks to be sure that I have individuality and to showcase a little bit of my own style. I finalise my design on paper before I start the fabric hunt and sewing process, and always with a little help from my 11-year-old daughter. Without a clear design, things can get out of control quickly (I have zero self-control in a good fabric shop). Finding the perfect fabric is my inspiration, and its full steam ahead from there.
What role do accessories and millinery play in your overall look, and how do you select the perfect pieces to complement your outfit?
The millinery has to be an extension of the outfit – which I always find the hardest part. My husband is amazing at helping with ideas on millinery and I really respect his feedback, although he can be quite harsh at times, especially when he thinks I’m on the wrong track. For the jewellery, I take sample fabric into the store with me when selecting this as it must be just right.
How has your personal style evolved since you first became interested in racewear fashion?
Entering fashions in the field competitions has definitely helped my wardrobe look a little more interesting. For me, racedays are the perfect excuse to get dressed up in something that makes me feel fabulous. I probably spend a little too much time in activewear, which is why I really look forward to getting glammed up and dusting off some of the fabulous bags and accessories I’ve managed to collect over the years.
What does participating in (or even winning) The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 mean to you?
I don’t think I slept for a week after qualifying for a spot in The Ned Prix de Fashion. I was just so excited and can’t believe the day is nearly here for the national final. I am delighted to be part of the day and will have my fingers and toes crossed that I have something to catch the eyes of the judges.
Do you have any advice for newcomers looking to enter the world of racewear competitions?
I say, “go for it”. Participating in racewear competitions is super fun and you meet some amazing people along the way. It’s very addictive, so get ready for some sleepless nights going over possible outfit ideas which seem to pop into your head at 3am in the morning.
Danni Alfeld
Qualified: New Zealand Cup Day
Representing: Canterbury Jockey Club
Danni Alfeld brings a love of animals and a lifelong connection to racehorses to her passion for racewear fashion. Living on a lifestyle block in Lincoln, Canterbury, Danni qualified for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 at Riccarton Racecourse on New Zealand Cup Day in November 2024.
Here’s a bit more about Danni…
What inspired you to participate in the regional qualifiers for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 and how did you prepare for it?
I have always loved fashion and follow the latest styles and trends; however, I love the style of fashion icons like Dior and Chanel. I started competing at Fashions in the Field two years ago. I prepared months out looking at different styles and options, and for something I hadn’t seen before. I found a style, altered this to what I thought suited me then liaised with my amazing dressmaker who made the dress a reality. Then it was all about adding the finer details, this can never be underestimated, the amount of time and effort required to complete the look.
Can you tell us about the journey of creating or selecting your outfit for the competition and what was your main inspiration?
Since qualifying for The Ned Prix de Fashion, I have been searching for the right look that represents me. I wanted to wear something which was different, young, fun and unexpected. It has taken months to find what I had been envisioning, and it all started with a photo on Pinterest which I adapted to suit me and to the look I wanted to create. 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.
What role do accessories and millinery play in your overall look, and how do you select the perfect pieces to complement your outfit?
I love my millinery and look for something unique in each outfit I create. The finishing touches to an outfit can be the difference from looking good to looking great. I have shown horses for many years in turn-out classes and really concentrate on that polished finished look. One mistake can cost you the win in the horse ring! My mum and I are great op-shoppers, and we have been lucky enough to source some amazing pieces which have added the finishing touches to my outfit. It is not always about the cost; it is about what makes the look and sometimes it is that unique piece that makes the difference.
How has your personal style evolved since you first became interested in racewear fashion?
I have changed my style over the past 18 months after listening to advice. I looked at various events and following various fashion sites and social media, talked to experienced fashion people and this challenged me to be young and creative, never stay with the same style and to be bold. I like to push the boundaries and keep people guessing what style I will wear next. I dress for what I feel, not what I feel is expected.
What does participating in (or even winning) The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 mean to you?
I am so very privileged to be involved in the competition and hope I will represent Riccarton Park Racecourse well. I have had so much support from family, friends and many lovely ladies around the country who have inspired me to be part of an amazing fashion network.
Do you have any advice for newcomers looking to enter the world of racewear competitions?
Listen, watch and learn. Find someone you trust to offer an honest opinion! Give yourself plenty of time to plan your outfit and enjoy every moment.
Kristjana Hutton
Qualified: Waikato Cup Day
Representing: Waikato Thoroughbred Racing
Kristjana Hutton has embraced the world of racewear fashion with enthusiasm and heart. Representing Waikato Thoroughbred Racing, she qualified for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 on Waikato Cup Day at Te Rapa in December 2024. With a passion for supporting small businesses and a flair for combining eclectic inspirations, Jana’s journey is a celebration of creativity and her lifelong connection to horses.
Here’s a bit more about Kristjana…
What inspired you to participate in the regional qualifiers for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 and how did you prepare for it?
I have loved to dress up for a while, but for the 2024/2025 season just decided to launch myself into it 100% and put myself out there. I had bought my hat first from Kamellyon Design in Australia, I saw it and just loved it, shortly after I found a dress from one of my favourite local New Zealand designers Olivia Haywood on Instagram. Olivia said the dress had sold – so we went about creating another one similar. On the day of qualifying it was like no other, I had driven up from Taupo so early because I was scared of getting caught in road works. I did my makeup and eye lashes in my car parked on the side of the road in Cambridge and then quickly popped into the hairdresser to get my hair done. We almost missed entering the event because I met with the girls, and we just got chatting! All in all, it was such a brilliant day.
Can you tell us about the journey of creating or selecting your outfit for the competition and what was your main inspiration?
My outfit for the finals is called “Small Business”, I have collaborated with two small local businesses to bring my ideas to fruition for my final piece. Because I won in Olivia’s dress I wanted to bring her on my journey, and I also pulled in another Auckland dressmaker Ruscoe Bustenera-Kirby to create some beautiful tailoring to the outfit. At the forefront of my mind, it has been about supporting small business and supporting local where I can.
What role do accessories and millinery play in your overall look, and how do you select the perfect pieces to complement your outfit?
For my millenary I have chosen to go to a small Sydney based milliner – Kathryn Lee. Through my racing fashion season, I have worn varied styles. The piece I have chosen for the final look is one of my favourite styles, and it’s actually based off a hat I found in my husband’s, grandmother’s wardrobe. I sent a picture to Kathryn, and she pulled a masterpiece together and put her own spin on it. I have quite an eclectic taste – but I think overall, my final look is well balanced and interestingly different. The clutch bag I have chosen tonally matches with the outfit – and is a slight nod to the current building industry that I work within.
How has your personal style evolved since you first became interested in racewear fashion?
From first entering a Fashions in the Field competition to now, I have refined my style and become more confident in what I am doing.
What does participating in (or even winning) The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 mean to you?
I am so honoured to stand up there on Saturday and represent Waikato Thoroughbred Racing. It is quite nostalgic for me, as I have a strong background with horses. As a child, I spent my time chasing ribbons and sashes, so the connection to racing has always been there. Now, I’m taking that passion and merging it with fashion. It feels like I’m reliving that same excitement, just in a new arena. To win, well let’s just wait and see – there will be so many fabulous looks on Saturday it will be tough competition – if I actually won it would be a very emotional day for me.
Do you have any advice for newcomers looking to enter the world of racewear competitions?
Just go for it! Put on your shoes, enjoy a glass of bubbles, and put yourself out there. The first walk might be scary, but it won’t harm you, and you’ll only get better with time. The best part is meeting amazing people and forming friendships—those are things you can’t buy or style. So, enjoy the journey!
Nicola May
Qualified: SkyCity Boxing Day Races
Representing: Auckland Thoroughbred Racing
Nicola May is no stranger to the world of racewear competitions, combining a love for fashion with her vibrant personal style. Representing Papakura, Auckland, Nicola qualified for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 at the SkyCity Boxing Day races at Ellerslie, balancing the challenge of being in her third trimester at the time.
Here’s a bit more about Nicola…
What inspired you to participate in the regional qualifiers for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 and how did you prepare for it?
I entered the regional qualifier competition at the SkyCity Boxing Day Races as it is one of my favourite racedays and I had won the previous year at Pukekohe with my friend Sasha. I wasn’t able to prepare very far out for the day as I was 39 weeks pregnant so wasn’t sure what I was going to fit!
Can you tell us about the journey of creating or selecting your outfit for the competition and what was your main inspiration?
I fell in love with my millinery first and had been admiring it for months before I found my dress which I thought matched perfectly. My millinery was definitely the starting point of my outfit, and I love it!
What role do accessories and millinery play in your overall look, and how do you select the perfect pieces to complement your outfit?
My millinery obviously plays a large part as it’s the first piece I chose for my outfit. I have chosen accessories to compliment the look.
How has your personal style evolved since you first became interested in racewear fashion?
I started out wearing looks that I loved and curated myself, to being influenced and inspired by other people, but I have recently come back to looks that I have created and decided on myself and definitely feel more confident and comfortable in them.
What does participating in (or even winning) The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 mean to you?
I have met so many amazing women and made some amazing friends over the past five years competing in The Ned Prix de Fashion, winning this year would be a bonus!
Do you have any advice for newcomers looking to enter the world of racewear competitions?
Wear what you love, wear it with confidence and have fun!
Sarah Morris
Qualified: Wellington Cup Day
Representing: Wellington Racing Club
Sarah Morris, an IT consultant and mother of two from Tamahere, is stepping into the spotlight as a regional finalist in The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025. After winning both the Classic Lady of the Day and Supreme Winner titles at Wellington Cup Day, Sarah’s love of raceday fashion has reached new heights.
Here’s a bit more about Sarah…
What inspired you to participate in the regional qualifiers for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 and how did you prepare for it?
I’m a huge fan of raceday fashion. I’m a frequent attendee at Waikato Cup Day and it’s always one of my favourite social events for the year. I like to plan early starting with choosing a dress, then accessories and millinery. I loved my outfit so much that I really wanted to give it another run at another raceday and pulled off my first win at Wellington.
Can you tell us about the journey of creating or selecting your outfit for the competition and what was your main inspiration?
I was so happy to win a qualifying round, beyond excited! Then it hit me pretty quickly that I need to prepare for the next stage of the competition, which in all honesty I hadn’t really thought about. I loved my qualifying outfit so much that it became my inspiration for my outfit I’m wearing this weekend.
What role do accessories and millinery play in your overall look, and how do you select the perfect pieces to complement your outfit?
My millinery is beautiful, it’s so feminine and playful and I wanted to complement it with accessories that work in harmony with it. I also like to choose pieces that I know won’t be a once off wear, I know the heels will be worn again and again with different outfits over time.
How has your personal style evolved since you first became interested in racewear fashion?
I have more of an appreciation for hats, headbands and hair accessories!
What does participating in (or even winning) The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 mean to you?
It’s pretty special to get to this point in the competition, winning would be the dream. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes, my family have been amazing, they truly know how much hard work and dedication have been poured in, I love being a role model for my girls. I’m so excited to showcase my style, this competition means a lot – can’t wait!
Do you have any advice for newcomers looking to enter the world of racewear competitions?
Yes, if you love fashion like I do, give it a go! Join the social pages and learn and be open to taking on tips from those who have done it before.
Ceri McVinnie
Qualified: Valentines Raceday
Representing: New Plymouth Raceway
Ceri McVinnie, who secured her spot at the New Plymouth races, is gearing up to bring her signature style and Marilyn Monroe-inspired flair to The Ned Prix de Fashion stage. A longtime racewear enthusiast with over a decade of experience, Ceri finds joy in the creativity, camaraderie, and community spirit of the competition.
Here’s a bit more about Ceri…
What inspired you to participate in the regional qualifiers for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 and how did you prepare for it?
I’ve been attending the races since I was a child and first stepped into the fashion scene over 10 years ago (which makes me feel old just saying it!). Over the years, I’ve met some wonderful ladies through racing, and I love competing in the regional events—not just as an excuse to dress up and catch up with friends but also as a way to support smaller racing clubs and their communities. Preparing for each event is always an exciting challenge. I think a lot of it is about paying attention to the details—from millinery to accessories—to ensure everything ties together beautifully and fits the occasion.
Can you tell us about the journey of creating or selecting your outfit for the competition and what was your main inspiration?
For my Prix look, I started with the hat, which is a bit backwards from how I usually approach things. My main inspiration is one of my favourite style icons – Marilyn Monroe. Her glamorous yet playful style felt like the perfect reference, so I aimed to capture that mix of sophistication and fun.
What role do accessories and millinery play in your overall look, and how do you select the perfect pieces to complement your outfit?
Accessories and millinery are essential to completing my overall look. They’re the perfect way to add personality and elevate an outfit, helping to tie everything together. I’ve always been a bit of a control freak when it comes to my outfits, which is why it was a big step for me to trust someone else with my millinery. In the past, I’ve made my own pieces, so working with the incredibly talented Monika Neuhauser was a shift for me. I adore Monika and her creations, and it takes a lot of pre-race day pressure off!
How has your personal style evolved since you first became interested in racewear fashion?
As I’ve gotten older, I’d like to think my style has become more refined and polished. While I’ve always leaned towards classic, timeless pieces, I’ve recently started experimenting with different silhouettes, especially after being loyal to A-line styles for years. Jewellery has become a bigger focus for me too—it’s now an essential part of elevating my outfits. I’m all about embracing elegance, but with a bit of creative freedom to try new things.
What does participating in (or even winning) The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 mean to you?
Participating in The Ned Prix de Fashion is an incredible honour, and winning would be an absolute dream. New Zealand fashions in the field is incredibly competitive, with so many stylish and inspiring women, so I feel extremely lucky to be among the finalists this year. I can’t wait to see everyone’s unique outfits and be surrounded by such a beautiful and creative group of ladies. I’m just so thrilled to be a part of it!
Do you have any advice for newcomers looking to enter the world of racewear competitions?
My advice is to just go for it and enjoy the experience. Fashions in the field is a celebration of style, creativity, and the racing community, so wear something that makes you feel confident and that you love. Pay attention to the details and don’t be afraid to inject your own personality! Judging is subjective, so focus on enjoying the process, not just the outcome. Most importantly, be gracious—whether you win or not, celebrate others, support and encourage your fellow competitors, and enjoy the friendships you’ll make along the way.
The 2024 The Ned Prix de Fashion Grand Finalists
Do you want to join these ladies in the national final? 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. Click here for more details.
