We’ve all had that moment where you see someone on the street and think, “Oh, I love her bag/top/skirt.”
Some can work up the courage to ask a stranger where they shop, but not all of us are that brave.
This gave us an idea for a feature and we’re hoping to hunt down the country’s most stylish women to quiz them on their favourite fashion finds and style tips.
Second on our style crush list is Hayley O’ Connor, PR Manager at Ladbrokes Ireland.
In her own words, here are Hayley’s style essentials.
To me the epitome of style is Sophia Loren. Much of her iconic beauty came down to the way she carried herself and it’s doubtful that someone like her would ever been seen caught out, hobbling through the turnstiles in ill-fitting stilettos after the last race.
Which brings me nicely to my first tip – which is nothing to do with what you wear. Regardless of the height of your heels, start your day by conserving the amount of walking you need to do.
This can be achieved by getting your boyfriend to drive you right to the gate, arriving early and flashing a fabulous smile to the parking attendant who should swiftly turn a blind eye and let you zoom discretely into the members car park and never, ever get a shuttle bus.
Hayley recommends wedges for both comfort and style
My next rule, is that prior to donning your fabulous dress; never ever wear instant tan racing. Our weather of one season in a day means if you do, you’ll look like you’ve got in the way of some flying tea bags.
Regardless of the time of year; your coat is the most important piece when going racing. Cheltenham is all about tweed and I’ve got serious mileage out of the investment I made 2 years ago in a Ralph Lauren tweed blazer.
Another purchase I couldn’t live without is my fur stole from Bastion. A fur collar or stole is ideal to keep you warm when you taking a walk around the course and easily removable without upsetting your outfit if you return to the warmth of the grandstands. To add a bit glamour, a nice costume broach can bring a bit of sparkle.
As I’m generally running from parade ring to the finishing post, I have to be logical about my footwear, which is very annoying, but better than having aching limbs by the second race. Flats aren’t an option and thin heels are simply not feasible unless you like sinking endlessly into grass, so wedges are best.
I bought a lovely pair by Carvella in BT2s recently and I love them so much, I might get another.
As my motto is simple simple simple when it comes to racing attire, colourful elements are necessary to avoid looking boring. This is why I love brightly coloured gloves and scarves. Fendi, Orla Keily and Missoni are my favourites.
Scarves and gloves are Hayley’s chosen accessories
My most important style tip is have fun, as nothing looks more beautiful than a smile!
