Curragh event showcases Anne-Marie Corbett’s triumphant fashion flair

Anne-Marie, a restaurateur from Charleville and Fermoy, was pleasantly surprised to win the My Fair Lady-inspired hat competition. Her stunning red crinoline hat, created by milliner Carol Kennelly from Tralee, Co Kerry, featured ivory roses and billowing red tulle, adding a dramatic touch to her outfit on the windy plains of Kildare.

Anne-Marie’s ensemble showcased a mix of fashion items from various parts of Ireland. Her off-the-shoulder Bardot dress was from Liza Brennan Scanlan’s Phoenix V boutique in Cork city, while her diamante buckle shoes were sourced from Promoli shoe shop in Galway. She also carried a pearl orb bag, which was a thoughtful gift.

In her excitement, Anne-Marie expressed her passion for fashion and dressing up, revealing that she has been participating in races for 19 years. Although she had been a finalist before at the Curragh, this was her first victory. As a reward, she received a VIP trip to Dubai and a pampering stay at the prestigious K Club.

Anne-Marie’s joy continued as she embarked on her new role as a special needs assistant at a summer camp in Mitchelstown for primary age children.

In the winner’s enclosure, Stuart O’Reilly from Naas, Co Kildare, won the Most Stylish Man prize. He showcased a contemporary take on modern tailoring, combining a Remus Uomo three-piece check suit with an open neck shirt and black Doc Marten shoes. Stuart, who recently returned from traveling in Australia, Malaysia, and Japan, completed his look with silver earrings bought in Japan. He expressed his excitement about working in the fashion industry and his previous experience in Brown Thomas’ marketing department.

The celebrity judges, Lottie Ryan from RTÉ and Arthur Gourounlian, a choreographer and TV presenter, focused on the theme of “playful glamour” while choosing the winners.

Additionally, a special prize was awarded to nine-year-old Alex Doolan from Roscommon. Alex’s mother, milliner Laura Hanlon, wore a hat that he had made using Lego. This charming gesture caught the attention of the judges, including Breeda McLoughlin, wife of Colm McLoughlin, executive vice-chairman and CEO of Dubai Duty Free.