THE racing season’s most highly anticipated Ladies’ Day is almost upon us and the competition is heating up as we wait to see which stylish woman will walk away with prizes worth €10,000 in the g hotel Best Dressed Lady competition.

With a judging panel that includes actress Aoibhin Garrihy, fashion editor Bairbre Power, the g hotel general manager Triona Barrett and TVs Baz Ashmawy, entrants will have their work cut out for them to stand out from the crowd and impress the judges.

So how do you make sure that you’re noticed above everyone else?

1. Decide which competition you’re entering. As well as Best Dressed Lady, there’s also Best Hat (with a prize worth €2,000). Sometimes throwing everything at one outfit doesn’t work. If you have a spectacular headpiece consider a simpler outfit that shows it off and if it is your whole look that shines make sure your hat is part of that.

2. Don’t forget the shoes. So often judges will be about to hand out a finalists badge only to look down at the last second and realise that the footwear is jarring. Your look should go from head to toe.

3. Have an idea of what the judges like. If you can research their particular style you might be on your way into the g Marquee.

4. Irish design is always a winner. Once you’ve made it as a finalist you’ll get a chance to chat to the judges and they will always be impressed at someone supporting local talent.

5. Remember too that you don’t have to spend a fortune on everything. The judges love a good story and if you’re wearing your wedding shoes from four years ago or using a clutch that your great aunt owned they’ll be delighted.

6. Be comfortable. It’s a long day, the judges are watching you for hours. If you’re cold or you haven’t worn your shoes before and they’re cutting the feet off you it will be clear.

7. Think about your hair. Irish weather, being what it is, is changeable. If your hair misbehaves in heat or collapses in a light breeze remember that. Something that looks good when you’re leaving the house may not look the same five hours later!

8. Recently Ladies’ Day judges have been going for a more modern, clean look. It may be time to leave the frilly umbrella and gloves at home and consider a more streamlined silhouette.

9. Make sure you experience the rest of the day. Winning Best Dressed is amazing but there’s a huge programme of events and the festival is a lot of fun.

10. Remember that first time entrants win too. Don’t feel intimidated. If you feel good you look good and the judges are always on the lookout for someone new.

THE DETAILS

11.00am: Gates to the racecourse are open

11.30am: Judging will commence at the racecourse. Our five invited judges will walk around the racecourse through the crowds and invite a select number of chosen finalists to the Ladies Day g Marquee parade ring. Finalists must immediately make their way to the g Marquee. The finalist badge is required for entry of the g Marquee.

2.30pm: All finalists in the g marquee for an informal chat with our judges.

3.30pm: The winners of both competitions are announced

4.10pm: The prize giving ceremony takes place in the parade ring

The winner of the overall Best Dressed will receive a spectacular prize of €10,000, while Best Hat will receive a prize worth €2,000. Together with the g Hotel & Spa, we look forward to hosting once again a superb day of style and elegance at the Galway Races.