So, what do I need to do to win 'Fashion in the Field'??

 After a huge day of judging Fashion in the Field at in Christchurch this week, I finally feel qualified to comment on what it takes to be a winner.

To win a competition like this can be very rewarding, from overseas trips, loan vehicles and wonderful gift baskets, to driving a fashion brand or label's profile. It appears that the prize loot simply gets better with each level of competition.

Imagine winning the Melbourne Cup ... not only for the brand recognition should you be an aspiring or established designer, but also for the very desirable loot!

So after a full day of judging one of the largest NZ fields of entry that a Fashion in the Field competition attracts outside of Ellerslie, Auckland, I do feel experienced to offer well informed views.

Alongside this, we have also provided an unsuccessful entry for one of our team to wear at the Melbourne Cup this year, so we have some wonderful learnings to share.

As always, it is great to have a wide variety of skill and experience on a judging panel and from an entrant's perspective it’s always assuring to know that you are all in with chance. It is however imperative from the organizers end to make sure the judges are from a broad background to ensure robust discussion and decision making as part of the process.

So what does it take to win?

I, for one, will always see a winner as a classic daywear ensemble with a twist... a Kate Middleton on speed look.

Note ladies that race wear can never be evening wear and must always be well thought through as to colour style and completion.

A great body is an excellent start; lots of height and a great pair of legs where possible.

The model you choose, or if it’s yourself, will need to carry herself well as deportment is key to showing the garments well. And if they win, they will need to be able to converse well with the media.

So how do you start?

Perhaps consider the very necessary hat first - quirky, with some height, interesting and able to be worn well - something that no one else is likely to have on the day.

Followed by the shoes that match the hat colours you have selected. In choosing the shoes there is plenty of room to introduce drama and the very necessary height!

Finally, the dress will then pull all this together. I'm a big fan of the 1950s, which lends to knee length, sleeveless, a full skirt, shaped bodice and not too much bust if any. Think late 1950s Dior.

 Consider that the day may be cold, so a cover up will be needed. This becomes another way to add to your ensemble, not to disguise it, so plan carefully about how this will look should it need to be worn.

The dress needs to be beautifully constructed, with an eye for detail as to hems, linings and neckline.

 Use strong colour and colour block - yes, you need to stand out! Remember, whilst you may work with a fashion trend from a bygone era and endeavour to execute this well, less will always be more; the frock, the shoes and hat will do all the talking you need.

Finish with a pair great tanned legs (not too tanned) or toeless nude hosiery - yep you can get these.

It's the details that count, so nails painted and perfectly to work with the outfit, this includes painting the toes, hair perfectly and firmly styled (you don't want your chances ruined by wind gusts) to enhance the hat placement and a small bag with an interesting point of difference - needs to have the ohhhh factor!

Make up professionally done; think about eye colour and drama, eye lash extensions. There is so much that can be achieved in creating a look. It must however work with your total look, this is not Halloween. Once again, classic with a twist and lip colour will be extremely important.

The Melbourne Cup report

Annah Stretton Australia Senior Stylist, Belinda Sherriff says that while selecting an outfit that is 'on trend' is important, women must retain a classic style when dressing.

"It's very much about matching and dressing like a lady," Belinda explains. "This year I noticed that outfits leaned slightly towards evening wear instead of strictly day wear - this is in fabrics and style. Likewise this year it was more about fascinators than hats."

After talking with judges at the Fashion in the Field event, Belinda learnt that winning outfits were chosen that were 'on trend, precise and classic with one stand out item, which is normally the headwear but not always... rules do get broken'.

This year Belinda herself entered the Designer category with an Annah Stretton outfit and while she didn't place, the judges were very excited about having a NZ designer in the competition.

Some tips from our Beauty Guru, Phoenix, to get you in the winner’s circle

Take first place in the beauty style stakes with some tips on getting race-day glamorous.

Display Smooth Skin

Put your best face forward come race day by applying a radiance-boosting mask the night before. It's a great way to add extra moisture before facing the dehydrating conditions of the day ahead, as well as plumping up your skin for a smoother look

Glow gently

Race-day etiquette suggests a classic dress, statement headwear and polished accessories - it doesn't condone an orange tan. While it's tempting to coat post-winter limbs with an extra dollop of fake tanner, a more natural result is best. Use body moisturiser with built-in bronzing ingredients for a few days leading up to the Cup for a believable glow.

Lighten your look

Remember that, unlike in the office, or when you're out at night, harsh daylight can be unforgiving when it comes to your make-up. So, rather than relying on a heavy, full-coverage foundation, which can look unnatural when you're outdoors, select a sheer base that blends seamlessly into your skin. Mineral make-up is a great choice