2011: Best Dressed winner

Creative, colourful and a little bit quirky, Angela Menz’s bold mix of magenta, chartreuse and orange won her the National Final of Fashions on the Field in 2011. Representing New South Wales, she impressed with her self-styled look featuring a hand-dyed skirt, sculptural millinery and standout accessories.

VRC 22 August 2025

Angela's win not only delivered a car and career-defining moment but also opened doors in the fashion industry, where Angela now works in footwear product development while still embracing her love for millinery and racing style.

What year did you win, and in which category?
I won the National Final in 2011. I qualified by winning at Rosehill Gardens in Sydney on Mad About the Hat Day, then went on to win the grand final on Oaks Day at Flemington, representing New South Wales.

Tell us about your winning look.
I wore a magenta silk cowl neck top with a chartreuse pencil skirt, paired with a sculptural orange straw hat trimmed with magenta egret feathers and crystals. The magenta silk came from a trip to Bangkok, and I hand-dyed the skirt to the perfect chartreuse on my stove. My shoes were Miu Miu (bought at a hefty discount), and I wore a chunky orange necklace my mum made. I shaped the millinery for height and added feathers to make it even taller.

How long did it take to create?
It came together over a few days but was finished at the last minute, which is pretty typical for me! I had a vague idea at the start, but the final look evolved as I made it.

How long have you been involved with racing or FOTF?
Long-time fan for sure, and still a fan many years later!

What went through your mind when you were announced the winner?
I was nervous being on stage and knowing it was on TV. When the runners-up were announced, I thought I might have a chance – and when I won, I felt relief and excitement. I did a little fist pump with my new car keys … followed by an ugly cry!

Is fashion your profession or a personal passion?
At the time I was managing a retail store in Canberra. I’ve since moved to Melbourne and now work as a product developer for women’s shoes, while still enjoying millinery and designing racewear.

Has winning opened new doors?
It literally changed my life and allowed me to have many experiences that I never would’ve had, so I will forever be enthusiastic and excited about FOTF. After winning I was invited to the 2012 Cairns Amateurs to judge their FOTF competition. On the judging panel I met Kerrie Munro, a powerhouse in Australian footwear, and she offered me a junior position in product development at what is now Munro Footwear Group. I moved from Canberra to Melbourne for the role and all these years later I’m still there. I currently look after the brand, ‘I Love Billy’.

What makes Flemington’s FOTF competition stand out?
It is a unique celebration of Australian style where creativity and individuality are honoured. The competition welcomes contestants wearing anything from handcrafted, handmade pieces to high-end designer fashion, each with an equal chance of being recognised and winning. It is inclusive and open to all, regardless of budget, background or experience. FOTF competitions are held across the country and even globally, but Flemington is recognised as the largest and most prestigious of them all. All of this is held at one of the biggest sporting events, making it even more special.

Has the win influenced your style?
I love to play along with trends, so as they have evolved, so have the things I like to wear. My love of colour has always been evident and remains so, so I don’t really follow the ‘Melbourne Black’ uniform. My winning outfit in 2011 looked a bit too sensible, so at the last minute I popped on a ring with lips because it needed something strange. I always like a bit of interest and quirk in what I wear, and that continues today.

Will you enter again?
If I’m not competing, I’ll definitely be there watching the competition. I have no idea what I’ll be wearing because it probably won’t be finalised until the very last moment.

What’s your advice for new entrants?
Just do it! Use the competition as an excuse to wear something extra fabulous – buy the ridiculous shoes, wear a crazy hat and take a fashion risk! You never know what the judges are looking for, so wear something you love, and you’ll have a great day!

2011: Best Dressed winner

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