The Melbourne Cup, Australia’s racing event of the year is known for its incredible fashion scene – but how many people can actually say they’ve won the Fashions on the Field at such a prestigious event?

Well, former local Sammy Smith was able to do just that, and not with an overpriced designer dress, but one she made herself!

Sammy said the inspiration for her stunning ensemble came when she noticed the eye-catching fabric while on holiday with her husband in America.

“I just knew it was going to be something special,” she said.

“After a few design drawings it all started to come together, and began to form my Melbourne Cup Day outfit.”

But what’s the secret to creating a head-turning look?

Sammy said the key to a winning look was a lot of patience and attention to detail.

“This attention to detail goes right down to making sure that not only do you have the perfect millinery, bag or shoes, but making sure they all come together and complement each other in order to create a cohesive winning look.”

When Sammy was announced as a winner of the Fashions on the Field, she said it felt “out of this world” to be a winner at Australia’s premier racing event.

“I had stepped forward after hearing my name before I had really processed what had happened,” Sammy said.

“On the way down, jokes were made between my husband and I about what if this actually happened – but now I just can’t believe it has!”

“Melbourne Cup is the biggest race day of the year, and this is the biggest fashions-on-the-field competition – not just in Australia, but also internationally.”

Although Sammy said it was an incredible experience to be recognised for her flawless fashion sense, the highlight was being able to immerse herself into the beautiful fashion scene throughout the day.

“Talking to the other competitors about their ideas and personalities and how it comes together in their outfits was the standout of the day for me,” she said.

“There are some amazing people in this community making it incredibly easy to make friends all over the world!”

Sammy, pictured centre, with fellow fashion winners.