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Racing Fashion Weekly

You are invited · Thu 29 July 2027

Galway Races Ladies Day (Thursday)

Galway Racecourse, Ballybrit, Galway, Ireland

flagship

Ireland's most famous Ladies Day: the EUR 10,000 Best Dressed Lady and the Best Hat competition. Judges in 2026 praised 'elegance, originality and attention to detail' and 'confidence'.

what to wear

The dress code

Dress standard
Formal
Millinery
expected
Season
Summer

Women

Club wording (read 12-13 Nov 2026): "Although there is no official dress code at Irish racecourses, smart casual attire is usually a safe option." Thursday and Friday are named as the days to showcase style and enter the fashion competitions. Check the forecast when planning an outfit.

Encouraged

  • smart casual
  • dress for the forecast

Men

Club wording (read 12-13 Nov 2026): "Although there is no official dress code at Irish racecourses, smart casual attire is usually a safe option." Thursday and Friday are named as the days to showcase style and enter the fashion competitions. Check the forecast when planning an outfit.

Encouraged

  • smart casual
  • dress for the forecast

Outfits built to this dress code

What to wear to Gowran Park

5 outfits for women and men, with the reason each one passes.

See the outfits

Styling notes

Ballybrit is exposed: bring a cover-up and shoes that cope with grass and rain.

Weather

Typically 13-20 C; sunshine and sudden showers both likely. (General climate norm, not from a club page.)

Fashions on the Field

  • Best Dressed Lady: EUR 10,000 (stated on the club's Thursday page). 2026 headline sponsor Ella & Jo (skincare; year two of a three-year deal). 2026 judges: Mandy Maher (head judge), Charlene Flanagan (Ella & Jo) and Laura Fox. Entry: online with a photo before 11am on the day, wearing the same outfit at the course, or be spotted by the judges on the day.
  • Best Hat (2026 winner wore Fiona Rafter; prize value not published on the pages read).

Check the official details before you go: galwayraces.com ↗

for the day

Shop the look

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save the date

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