The inaugural Florida Steeplechase is pleased to announce the addition of a ladies' Fashions on the Field competition to the day's festivities. Horse racing events around the world such as the Kentucky Derby, the Melbourne Cup and Royal Ascot are iconic in large part for the ladies' fashion on display. Racing style has been eminent at racecourses in Europe for hundreds of years and has evolved in America to run the gamut from classic, to festive, themed and even sometimes daring. Part of the joy of the races for many is the opportunity to create their own unique race day look and we aim to showcase and celebrate them all in our Fashions on the Field competition.
ODETTE boutique is the official sponsor of the Fashions on the Field competition this year. Located in the luxurious World Equestrian Center, ODETTE is the premier locally based equestrian & fashion destination. ODETTE is a curated lifestyle and equestrian boutique whose style is simple, mixing high and low, casual and dressy from stable to street looks. The Florida Steeplechase is delighted to partner with this equestrian inspired, locally based premium lifestyle brand for this competition.
Prizes will be awarded to the winner, first and second runner up and the competition will have a panel of three judges. The judges are Michelle Barnecett, founder and curator of ODETTE, Devon Zebrovious of Cherry Blossom Millinery and Louisa Barton, host of The Horse Talk Show.
Devon Zebrovious (left) is from Middleburg, Virginia. She works full-time as an attorney; creates bespoke racewear hats under Cherry Blossom Millinery; manages her and her husband's Cherry Blossom Farm, which focuses on field hunters and show horses; is a multi-year national USEF side-saddle champion; foxhunts in the USA and Ireland; and is well-known in the steeplechase community for her multiple wins in best dressed and hat competitions. For herself and her hat clients, Devon incorporates both vintage and modern designer and high street pieces to create outfits that are elegant and unique, appropriate for the season, and designed to make the wearer feel fabulous!
Louisa Barton (right) was born and raised in England and an avid equestrian through Pony Club, Fox Hunting, Eventing and Hunter Jumpers throughout her childhood. When Louisa moved Ocala she brought her passion for horses with her and began hosting The Horse Talk Show, a live and local television and radio talk show with an international following. Louisa travels to horse races, shows and events to bring exclusive, behind the scenes coverage and interviews of world class equestrians to her listening audience. In addition to her role as host of the show, Louisa is also the Director of Equine Engagement for the Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership.
The Florida Steeplechase is looking forward to welcoming racegoers to its inaugural running on March 5th, 2022 and encourages attendees of all ages to sport their race day fashion and millinery!