2014 Millinery Award winner Jill Humphries

What year did you win, and in which category? 
I won the Millinery Award in 2014 and have finalled in every other entry I’ve done, including runner-up last year and the year prior. 

How long did your winning look take to create? 
Designing a Millinery Award piece takes months of planning. Last year, with the VRC’s focus on sustainability, I made the main component of my piece from sponsor Schweppes. I cut individual petals of wisteria, coloured them, and then assembled them. It was such a beautiful piece to work on, and I adored the final result. 

How long have you been involved with racing or FOTF? 
I have entered the Millinery Award each year that I’ve been able. It takes a lot of planning, so it’s never a spontaneous decision.

What went through your mind when you were announced the winner? 
I couldn’t believe it. I heard my name and had to be pushed towards the stage by people around me. It was truly a memorable moment, and why I now encourage new milliners to enter. There’s no feeling like it in the world, and the VRC does it to perfectionIs fashion your profession or a personal passion? 
I’m extremely lucky to be a full-time milliner with my own atelier in Hampton, Victoria. Since opening in 2024, it has gone from strength to strength, and now demand is bigger than ever with the new competition format (Best Dressed and Best Suited). 

Has winning opened new doors? 
Almost immediately. Orders and bookings for my work increased, and my visibility as a milliner was projected onto the world stage. 

What makes Flemington’s FOTF competition stand out? 
It’s almost indescribable. From walking in through the iron gates, the roses, the fashions, the race calling, the music, the food – it’s a vibe like nowhere else in the world. 

Has the win influenced your style? 
No. I always create what I want, and luckily, it translates to my clients and to Fashions on the Field. 

Will you enter again? 
No. This year, I want to judge again and encourage new milliners and fashion entrants to compete. I’ve had my time on stage – it’s time for new faces. 

What’s your advice for new entrants? 
A smile is always your best accessory.