We would encourage anyone new to FOTF is to make sure they have the basics of a FOTF outfit ready i.e. outfit, millinery, shoes & accessories i.e. bag/clutch, jewellery etc. and to check that it is appropriate for the season. A good way of checking this is to look at the ‘It’s All About The Sash Seasonal Guidelines’ which are saved to our 'All About FOTF' section. You many even already know someone who is a regular competitor who may be able to advise you. The IAATS Facebook group is also a great place for all people to ask questions, no matter their experience level!
We would also encourage everyone to see if the club they are competing at has any specific themes, categories and/or guidelines/criteria for the event. Themes are becoming popular at certain events. If a club has specific guidelines or rules, do take these into consideration and remember that each club sets its own criteria (if they have any at all).
Once all of the technicalities are out of the way, looking at past entrants & winner’s photos of the event & other recent events is a good way to get a feel for what is happening in FOTF at that track and in the wider arena.
Don’t overthink your outfit as a ‘winning look’ & make sure you wear something you love, feel comfortable wearing and confident in, as when you love your outfit you are always a winner personally!
The most important thing is to just have a go & have fun! Wearing a smile, no matter how nervous you are feeling is so important as it's always your best accessory.
Introduce yourself to others & you will likely come away from the day having met some new friends and also having an enjoyable day. Don’t focus on the results of the FOTF competition and take away as many positives from the day as you can, as there will always be another event, another outfit to plan & more lovely friends to meet!
FOTF and racewear styling is an ever-evolving skill, so keep trying, learning and taking risks, after all, we are all life-long learners no matter how many competitions we enter!