Stradbroke Day at Eagle Farm, Brisbane

The weather mostly held off for Stradbroke day at Brisbane Racing Club, Eagle Farm. Thank goodness because raceday for me started at 4.45amNot quite having the budget to stay overnight in Brisbane meant that stradbroke would be another fly in, fly out day at the track.The focus of the day for me was of course the Fashions in the Field competition. Lead up fotf events were held at prior racedays but Stradbroke was the big one with a huge prize pool on offer including a trip for two to Hong Kong.My outfit had started when i was looking at books in Dymocks and picked up a book on Audrey Hepburn. Although a Hepburn fan I'm generally not terribly inspired by her style- being much more safe and classic than i prefer. However on this occasion a passing glance at a picture made me need to buy the book and get ready to sew!The final result was a 60s inspired look, which I felt fit with current fashion trends this season. I didn't have a suitable hat block so made do with a mixing bowl.At the track were many familiar faces and I was certainly not the only one who had travelled quite a distance to take part in fotf. I would like to say i was completely engrossed in the racing but that would be a lie! Over 100 women and a few men lined up at the edge of the catwalk to have their two minutes on stage. There was a suggested theme of red, black and white for the day which the majority of contestants gave a nod to. Being winter carnival looks were quite heavy overall with quite a bit of fur, leather, wools and winter weight silks being worn.After my turn down the catwalk and watching each heat I didn't make the top ten, but was happy to see some friends and great outfits in the coveted final.The eventual winner was Lauren Walker and local boutique owner and longtime fotf friend. She ticked all the boxes with her outfit featuring the big winter 2013 trends of leather, studs, lace and a peplum also fitting into the colour scheme of the day. More importantly she showed great personal style taking the trends and working with them to suit her.Post fotf i got to catch up with a few people and grab a drink. And yes, by the end of the day I'd even seen horses and a race or two! Bring on Stradbroke Day 2014

Lauren Walker the winner in red and black

By Angela.