Style, confidence and individuality once again took centre stage at Ladies Day 2026, as thousands of racegoers descended on Ballybrit for one of the most glamorous and anticipated events in the Irish social calendar, with Ella & Jo returning as headline sponsor of the iconic Best Dressed competition.
Taking home the coveted €10,000 Best Dressed Lady prize was Lisa Walsh whose standout ensemble captivated the judges with its elegance, originality and attention to detail.
Lisa an accountant from County Meath, wowed the judges in a custom dress by “Only One Ashley” paired with a hat by Fiona Rafter.
In the Best Hat Competition Maksuda Akhter, was awarded the title for a striking headpiece by Fiona Rafter recognised for its creativity, craftsmanship and race-day flair.
The judging panel featured a distinguished trio of familiar faces, led by Mandy Maher, who returned as Head Judge, bringing her extensive fashion expertise and longstanding connection to the Galway Races. She was joined by Charlene Flanagan, Co-Founder of Ella & Jo and sponsor judge, and broadcaster and style influencer Laura Fox as Guest Judge.
Mandy Maher commented, “Ladies Day at the Galway Races continues to be one of the most exciting fashion events in Ireland. The standard was exceptional once again, with entrants showcasing incredible style, confidence and individuality.”
“Selecting our winners was no easy task. We were blown away by the quality and creativity on display this year. The ladies seem to get more stylish year after year, making the judging process harder than ever.”
Charlene Flanagan added, “Ladies Day is about so much more than fashion; it’s about confidence, personality and expressing your own sense of style. We were looking for competitors who brought something special to the competition, and the standard across the board was outstanding. Our winners combined elegance, originality and confidence in a way that really stood out.”
Galway native Laura Fox said, “The atmosphere at Ballybrit is always incredible, but Ladies Day brings a unique energy all of its own. The style on display was phenomenal, and it was fantastic to see so many people embracing fashion in their own way. The winners impressed us all with their attention to detail, confidence and presence from the moment they stepped forward.”
Now in the second year of their three-year partnership with the Galway Races, Irish skincare brand Ella & Jo continued its celebration of confidence, self-expression and timeless style.
Founded by Charlene Flanagan and Niamh Ryan, Ella & Jo has become synonymous with effective, feel-good skincare that empowers women to look and feel their best, making it the perfect partner for a day that champions individuality, fashion and confidence.
As the Galway Races Summer Festival continues to attract racegoers from across Ireland and beyond, Ladies Day remains a celebration of style, confidence and self-expression, cementing its reputation as one of the country’s most iconic fashion events.
The 2026 competition once again delivered unforgettable looks, memorable moments and worthy winners, adding another stylish chapter to the rich history of the Galway Races.
