For those that follow the Fashion At The Races scene in South Australia, the Kangaroo Island ladies winner will be familiar.
Victoria Penfold took home the winners sash on Kanagaroo Island Cup day and we had a chat with her about the win.
Tell us about your winning outfit. What were you wearing?
For KI Cup I worked with a dear friend Sarah of Sarandipity Designs and created a beautiful custom-made dress! I had seen the hat posted on social media that was one of a kind made by milliner ‘Stephanie Spencer’ from Victoria!
What process did you go through to plan and choose this ensemble?
I originally saw the millinery posted on social media that Stephanie had made for a client, and when I saw it advertised for sale second hand, I had to buy it and based by dress and accessory design around this piece.
What was your first racing event and how has your style evolved since?
My first event was Strathalbyn Cup last year in 2021. I fell in love the whole process of planning and creating outfits and made it my mission to try and attend every cup day in SA since.
Since then I have been more confident and outgoing with my style pairing colours and pattern combinations I'd never dream of wearing! FATR has giving me so much confidence to break the rules of day to day fashion and just have fun!
What are your favourite labels for racewear?
I generally love to get most of my dresses, millinery and accessories hand made! I enjoy the process of creating with small local business and seeing new ideas with all my own flare! I get lots of my inspiration from brands like Alcer, Solace London, Zimmerman and Pinterest!
Tell us about your makeup. What look did you choose and what key products did you use?
I actually left behind some of my key makeup items, like foundation back at home! Luckily enough I was able to make it work with help from friends, and create a simple fresh look! My key makeup product is lashes. I personally feel it really finishes a look for me and transforms a day wear look to race wear look!
How did you choose a hairstyle? What styling process did your locks go through?
Due to the size and busyness of the hat I wanted to keep my hair quite basic in a low bun to sit underneath nicely! This also complimented my simple makeup look too!
How would you describe your personal style?
Prior to competing in FATR it was quite simple! Now due to my increasing collection of amazing pieces and confidence, I tend to add in some of my race wear items in my general wear lifestyle. I would now describe my style as fun and bold!
How do you spend your time when you’re not at racing events?
When im not at the races I spend lots of my time outside with my horses and friends! Most weekends I like to explore new restaurants and wineries with some amazing life long friends and fellow races goers.
Why should everyone book in a day at the races this year?
The experience! I love the vibe and atmosphere when being at the track, which is a good excuse to hang out with friends, dress up and have a few wines.
What is your favourite race day to go to and why?
I personally don’t have a favourite, as each track has different and fun aspects another might not! You can't beat the big atmosphere at Morphettville on big race days like Adelaide and Melbourne Cup, but some of the smaller Country tracks like Quorn is a completely different vibe and great to connect with the locals you meet!
What is the biggest mistake women make when dressing for a race meeting?
FATR is quite conservative and different to how you may dress for a track meet. Steer clear of low neckline dresses and midriff cut outs, think classy!
