5 Nov 2009 - posted by FASHION STAKES: Tamsin Cooper will help judge Cup Day outfits.
It's a title any well-dressed woman would love to take home this Tuesday - Best Dressed Lady at the Races. So what does it take to win on Cup Day? Christina Kuntz asks one of the judges, Arrowtown-based accessories and clothing designer Tamsin Cooper.
Are you a race-day regular?
Well, I was born in Christchurch, but I left when I was about five months old. And I know it's a really big day on the social calendar there, but I haven't actually been before. I'm really looking forward to it and I'm expecting to be wowed - it's Christchurch fashion at its best. And it's a huge honour to be asked to be a judge.
What will you be looking for in choosing a winner?
Definitely originality and personal flair. And it's style over trends. It's not necessarily about what's in fashion at the moment; it's more about how the wearer has thought about their overall look - everything from the shoes to stockings to accessories. And since it's summer, I'll also be looking at their use of colour. For me, there has to be some creativity and personality in the outfit.
Will they get bonus points for wearing your accessories?
I may be slightly swayed. (Laughs.) No, I'll be fair.
Any faux pas that contestants should avoid?
Not thinking about the whole look. When I've judged other fashion awards, it seems that people sometimes concentrate really hard on the actual dress or skirt and jacket but forget about something like the shoes or the hosiery. All of those little accessories can be quite crucial to complete the whole look.
Hat or fascinator - or neither?
From all the research that I've done and the photos that I've looked at from previous Cup Days, they do seem to complete the look. But as a judge, I'm open to women not wearing one. It all depends on the look the person has created. But I also think hats and fascinators can be absolutely fantastic. I, personally, am having a little difficulty with my headpiece. I'll definitely wear something in my hair, but I'm still not sure what.
What kind of outfit will you be wearing to the races?
I haven't decided! I've got three outfits to choose from and I'll definitely pull out something from one of my ranges.
Read the article in full here.
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