The race that stops two nations and the fashion that turns our heads | Claudia Campbell

We recently caught up with Claudia Campbell – one of our very own big fashion winners – who is currently across the ditch, ready to compete in the Melbourne Cup Carnival’s Fashions on the Field competition, and got her advice for pulling together the perfect raceday outfit.

Claudia Campbell in her entry for this year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival Fashions on the Field competition

Claudia Campbell is no stranger to the sash after winning The Ned Prix de Fashion here at Ellerslie in 2013, and now she’s also heading to Melbourne after taking out the Victoria Racing Club’s Best Dressed category online.

“Monika Neuhauser made the hat and it’s a very classic geometric pattern. I had the nails to match, the handbag and shoes. It’s a very classic old school style.”

“We were stalking the website, waiting to hear the announcement, and I really didn’t expect to win.

“I think there were so many entries, and it was just so unexpected.”

A close-up of the detailing on Claudia Campbell’s Melbourne Cup Carnival Fashions on the Field outfit.

It shouldn’t be, because raceday fashion runs in her blood after her sister Eleanor won The Ned Prix de Fashion 2022, and Campbell says this year her outfit is a collaborative effort.

“My mum Anna and my sister are the brains behind it all, and I’m wearing what they’ve helped to envision.

“My grandma used to help as well, like sewing and things, but she stepped back this season.”

Claudia’s winning outfit from The Ned Prix de Fashion 2013.

So with all of that experience, what is her best piece of advice?

“I know it sounds so cliche, but just enjoy it, have fun and try not to get in your head about it. Just be in the moment, as you meet so many amazing people at the New Zealand competitions.

“I can’t wait to see who we meet in Melbourne.”

What are your best tips for people wanting to give competitive racing fashion a try?

“Definitely look at Instagram and see what everyone is wearing overseas as that’s a good way to get some inspiration, and don’t be afraid of colour.

“Make sure your accessories match – that’s something that my mum and sister have drilled into me.

“I think if you were doing a digital entry make sure you pick your background carefully for photos.”

Claudia Campbell’s Melbourne Cup Carnival Fashions On The Field outfit for 2024.

What will you bring back to New Zealand after your experience in Melbourne?

“I’ll be really taking notice of who the judges select to see if it’s all about the hat, or something else.

“I’ll be taking note for competitions back here.”

All eyes will be on Claudia and our other kiwi hopefuls as they take to Melbourne’s Fashions on the Field runway this week. Join us in crossing our fingers for their success and we hope to see you here at Ellerslie on March 8 for the 20th edition of The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025.