The Dubai World Cup comes with an even more anticipated and participated event, the Style Stakes, a fashion event celebrating the most stylish and creative men and women, all competing to be voted the best in various categories such as best dressed lady and gentleman, best dressed couple, most creative hat and more. To make sure you are in top fashion form, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about the high-stakes event:
MEET THE JUDGES
Dom Bagnato
The textile designer, patternmaker, tailor, stylist, fashion designer and retail operator is one of Australia’s successful fashion and retail experts in a field of constant revolving doors of changing trends and economic fluctuations.
Expert tip: “Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy! The joy of dressing for the DWC Style Stakes competition is the loveliest part of the experience.”
Daniel Higgins
Higgins is the fashion editor of Esquire Middle East and the bi-annual fashion publication The Big Black Book. He came to Dubai recently from London where he headed up the luxury and style division of a leading agency.
Expert tip: “I am looking for statement prints or colours, but worn in a subtle, classy way. I appreciate fine, intricate detailing that show the skill set involved.”
Kelly Lundberg
Award-winning celebrity stylist, keynote speaker, author and entrepreneur Kelly Lundberg has fashioned a highly successful empire in the world of style. Her style and industry knowledge and ability to combine the best in catwalk and commerce, is now taking her to the next level as a style innovator, fashion influencer and serial entrepreneur.
Expert tip: “Avoid styles that are too fashion forward and will date too easily, remember it’s the races not the runway.”
Saufeeya Goodson
Saufeeya is a Dubai-based content creator and a Vogue Arabia contributor. She uses fashion as a medium for self-expression and individuality, and as an outlet for creativity. She believes creativity has no bounds, and she revel in its influences. Her work ranges from designing, styling, and directing digital content.
Lucy Wildman
As the group fashion and beauty director with OK! Middle East & Cosmopolitan Middle East and with 11 years of working on some of UAE’s most prestigious weekly and monthly magazine titles, it’s pretty accurate to say Lucy is a little obsessed with all things style-related.
Expert tip: “Be brave, but not brazen; sophisticated not showy, elegant over edgy. Remind yourself that you will be mingling with royalty at the world’s richest horse race, and your look will be seen by millions across the globe — so this is the day to put 150 per cent into your outfit, and dress like the whole world is watching you!”
EVENT DETAILS
The Meydan Style Stakes will be held at Meydan Race Course, Apron Views from 2pm to midnight on March 25. Each category of competition is strictly timed according to the race timings. Guests can enter the arena from 12pm onwards and register themselves at Level 1, concourse at gates A, C & D as well as the registration desk at the entrance to the JSS Arena. Pre-registered contestants can collect their paddles directly at the JSS Arena. Registration closes at 3.30pm.
CATEGORIES
• 3.55pm — Best Hat
• 4.30pm — Best Dressed Man
• 5.10pm — Best Dressed Couple
• 5.40pm — Best Dressed Lady
Prizes include a smartphone, hotel stays and shopping, brunch and pampering vouchers.
RULES AND GUIDELINES
The contestants have certain dos and don’ts to follow when they decide to participate in the Style Stakes.
• Hats and fascinators must be worn at all times
• Hats or fascinators are mandatory for ladies
• Dresses or tops must have two straps at least one inch wide
• Hemlines must fall no higher than just above the knee
• No sunglasses to be worn on stage
• Casual wear is not permitted
• Punctuality is essential
Don’t miss it
Apron Views tickets for the Dubai World Cup start at Dh600. Go to store.meydan.ae.
