WHAT a result and a surprise as Regina Horan from Malahide, a sub-editor in our fellow newspaper the Irish Farmers Journal, was announced as the Dubai Duty Free Best Dressed Lady at the Curragh last Saturday.

Courtesy of Dubai Duty Free she will jet to Dubai, with stylish accommodation in the five star Jumeriah Creekside Hotel and €1,000 for a Dubai Duty Free spending spree. The trip will kick off in style with a night of luxurious accommodation in the K Club, before she is chauffeur driven to Dublin Airport.

Regina chose a red Self Portrait dress, Dior shoes, a Miu Miu clutch bag and a raffia boater style hat and she looked as stunning as ever, her office outfits being always fantastically stylish while others, mostly the lads, can take a more relaxed approach!

She takes up the story: “I went down to the Curragh on Saturday afternoon with the intention of enjoying the sunshine and chancing my luck on the horses – not in a million years did I expect to win the best dressed!

“Although we got our tickets for the Irish Derby in advance, I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to make it until Saturday morning as I was struck down by a bug in the days leading up to it.

FLORAL TIER

“I spent the morning trying to dig out something to wear and eventually came up with a pair of red patent shoes and red clutch to complement a floral tier dress from Self Portrait. I opted for vibrant red as I think it’s the one colour that never goes out of style – rain, hail or shine.

“As temperatures were forecast to hit the high 20s, I thought I’d better wear a hat that gave enough coverage to prevent sunburn. I was thinking far more in terms of practicality than style but look what happened!

“I wore an outfit that was comfortable and shoes I could walk for hours in, which I think is important to ensure an enjoyable day out whether it’s at the races, a wedding or any other social event. I have a laid back personality which I think is reflected in what I wear.

“I was in total shock when my name was called. I’ve never been involved in a competition like this before so it was a real surprise.

“I’m really looking to the dream trip to Dubai, courtesy of Dubai Duty Free. I haven’t set a date yet but I’m excited to have it to look forward to in the coming months.”