“I just love getting dressed up,” Mrs Holden-Smith said.

“We don’t often get the chance to dress up and feel like a lady and feel good in lovely clothes.”

Mrs Holden-Smith usually begins with a hat and plans her outfit around it to suit the season. 

She favours classic pieces rather than following fashion trends. 

Shades of burgundy and red with black are one of her favourite combinations. 

For practicality as well as fashion, Mrs Carmen-Smith goes for closed-in shoes rather than open-toed styles. 

“At the end of the day, as long as you feel good in the outfit, that’s what it’s all about,” she said.

While race meetings such as Gulgong and Mudgee are more relaxed Mrs Holden-Smith said there are strict rules for Fashions in the Field entrants at major racecourses. 

For those considering joining the Fashions in the Field line up at the Mudgee Races this weekend, she has the following tips: 

Aim for an elegant and classy look. “You are not supposed to look like you are going to a nightclub,” Mrs Holden-Smith said. 

Dresses should be no shorter than knee length.

Choose styles and fabrics appropriate to the season; 

Hats are an essential part of the outfit. Try felt for winter racedays and straw or lighter fabrics for spring and summer events. 

Raceday outfits should include gloves – leather for winter or lace in summer. However, it is acceptable to hold the gloves rather than wear them.

Plan your outfit around three colours; Don’t have too many colours.

Stockings or tights should be worn in winter but are not necessary in summer.

Pay attention to the fine details, such as jewellery and accessories.

Wear what makes you feel good.