How To Win The Style Awards in partnership with Tigerlily Boutique on Ladies Day

It’s one of the most glamorous days in Scotland’s social calendar. Part of the Sensational Raceday series, Ladies Day at Musselburgh Races is not only one of the biggest fixtures of the year, but a celebration of individual elegance and style. A sellout event for over a decade, it’s a day that has become synonymous with high octane glamour, skyscraper stilettos and millinery masterpieces that deserve a catwalk all of their very own.

At The Style Awards with Tiger Lily Boutique this year there’s a chance for the most stylish racegoers to be recognised and win one of their prestigious fashion prizes. With a first prize worth over £5,000 - including a trip to Pommery Champagne in France – plus Tiger Lily Boutique goodies for every contestant who makes it to the main stage, it’s a coveted accolade for the fashion forward. 

With fashion spotters handing out style award tickets to the most stylish racegoers from the minute the gates open, the best advice is to arrive early to increase the chances of taking part in one of the three heats. Thanks to a secret scout in possession of a golden ticket, one racegoer could be sent straight from the field to the Grand Finale. So how do racegoers get spotted?

With boutiques in Aberdeen, Broughty Ferry and Edinburgh, Tiger Lily’s owner, Debbie Brash, is perfectly placed to be both sponsor and judge of this year’s Grand Finale.

“When selecting who is best dressed at Musselburgh Racecourse we're all about celebrating those standout styles that turn heads in the most stylish way! It's important to us that everything is well-coordinated, with accessories that complement the main outfit. Elegance is key, so we favour polished, well-put-together looks,” says Debbie.

Together with fellow judges Meryl Williams, Erica Roberts, Bartosz Kowalczyk, Phil McHugh and last year’s Style Award winner Hannah Smith, there will be a Tiger Lily boutique judge at each heat.

“We all celebrate individual style and proudly embrace diversity and size inclusivity, so the Tiger Lily judges will welcome all individuals to showcase their unique flair on the racecourse. Overall, the entire look should be cohesive, from the hairstyle to the handbag, ensuring each attendee feels confident and fabulous in their own skin.”

Having been a judge no less than six times, the Edinburgh-based personal stylist and image consultant, Laura Russell from Satisfashion, is a veritable course specialist. She can’t wait to attend the races this year, but when to comes to standing out for all the right reasons, she says planning is key.

“When selecting your outfit, choose one focal point: whether it's a dress, suit, jumpsuit, amazing hat, fabulous shoes or bag and build your look around that. Ensure that the outfit flatters your body, the colours complement your skin tone and it reflects your personal style.”

When it comes to a day at the races Debbie also points out that comfort is Queen.

“Make sure your outfit will be comfortable enough for a day of standing, walking -and maybe even a bit of dancing. Comfortable, stylish shoes are essential—think wedges or block heels. Make sure your outfit and accessories are well-coordinated but don’t hesitate to add a bit of your personality with unique accessories or a bold print. Think polished, sophisticated and ready to turn heads.”

Laura expects to spot a few of the currents trends filter through from the catwalk to the enclosures this year.

“I think we will see a lot of co-ords and tonal outfits in bright colours like vivid pinks, blues and yellows. There will be maximalist prints with bold florals and abstract patterns as well as lightweight, transparent sheer fabrics.”

In terms of jewellery it’s all about big hats, chunky jewellery and bold bags right now. However, for Laura and her carefully honed fashion eye, confidence is the most important accessory.

“Someone who really exudes confidence in what they are wearing and knows how to put together a new and exciting look always catches my eye,” she says. “At Ladies Day, personal style wins, the judges will be looking for the one that owns their unique style and look.”

Thanks to Scottish milliner, Sally-Ann Provan, there’s the Best Hat Award too, with throngs of hats and fascinators competing for the top spot. And when it comes to pulling together the winning look, Sally-Ann agrees that personality and individuality are key.

“Without a hat your outfit doesn’t feel complete but you should consider your whole look from hat to toe,” she advises. “The hat should definitely be a star, but it shouldn’t completely outshine your outfit – the two should work together in some way.”

And whilst big may be better in the fashion stakes right now, size needs to be carefully considered.

“Large hats create more impact, but you don’t want to fall into the trap of the hat wearing the wearer,” Sally-Ann warns. “Colour used effectively can often create more impact than size.

“The judges are looking for a beautifully styled hat that complements or contrasts with the outfit. It’s lovely to see something ‘different’ from the norm. If someone has adapted a shop bought or pre-loved piece, or if it’s a homemade piece, that’s even better!”

So with the countdown to Ladies Day well and truly underway, what will you be wearing to win?

Please check out Tigerlily Boutique for all your raceday outfits -> https://www.tigerlilyboutique.co.uk/collections/meet-us-at-the-races