Ladies Day at The Game Fair: A Record-Breaking Celebration

Ladies' Day at The Game Fair, the glorious annual ritual where the British countryside's finest fashion takes centre stage. This year marked our 7th outing as proud sponsors, and what a whirlwind it was! With a record-breaking 91 contestants strutting their stuff in the Best Dressed Competition, it was clear that the rural fashion scene is alive, kicking, and more stylish than ever. If you've ever wondered how to blend practicality with panache while embracing the great outdoors, this recap is your invitation to relive the magic and perhaps inspire your next wardrobe refresh.

For those who might be new to the, The Game Fair is the ultimate gathering for country enthusiasts, held annually at the stunning Ragley Hall in Warwickshire. It's a haven for everything from shooting displays to artisan crafts, but Ladies' Day, held on the Friday, elevates the event into a veritable catwalk of countryside chic. Sponsored by Welligogs, this day is all about celebrating women who embody that effortless British elegance, boots that transition seamlessly from field to fête, and outfits that whisper "I'm ready for anything Mother Nature throws my way." It's not just about looking good, it's about feeling confident in clothes that work as hard as you do, whether you're tending to the garden, walking the dogs, or attending a summer soiree.

Scouts roamed the grounds in the morning, invitation cards in hand, spotting those standout looks that captured the essence of The Game Fair. From flowing dresses paired with sturdy wellies to sleek gilets over crisp shirts, the outfits reflected the diverse lives of our attendees, busy mums juggling family and farm life, professionals escaping the city for a breath of fresh air, and seasoned country dwellers who know that style doesn't stop at the stable door. It's this real-world relatability that makes Ladies' Day so special, it's not a stuffy affair, but a joyful nod to the women who make the countryside tick.. 

At the heart of the day was the Best Dressed Competition, a highlight that's grown in popularity since we first launched it seven years ago. This year, we shattered records with 91 fabulous entries, each one showcasing creativity and that signature rural flair. Contestants gathered at our Welligogs stand at 2 pm, nerves tingling and outfits gleaming under the summer sun. The judging panel was a dream team: Ashley and Lee from The Game Fair itself, bringing their insider expertise, Brontë Mitchell, the editor-in-chief of Femme Country Magazine, with her keen eye for trends that blend tradition and modernity, and Toni Tebbs, last year's winner, offering that authentic contestant's perspective. Together, they deliberated over all of the fantastic ensembles that entered the competition this year.

The winners were announced amid cheers and applause, and if you haven't seen the reveal yet, do yourself a favor and check out our Instagram reel for the full scoop. It's packed with highlights, including close-ups of the victorious looks that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the day. First place went to a standout outfit from @curlsinthecountryside that married elegance with everyday wearability, proving that sustainability and style can go hand in hand. Runner-ups @ems__ss_ and @spottedwithkaty impressed with their innovative takes on country classics. These outfits aren't just for show, they're for living and walking the dog on a misty morning or hosting friends for a garden lunch. 

We were thrilled to collaborate with the talented Katylockedesigns this year, who joined us to create bespoke illustrations of the Best Dressed Competition contestants in honor of Welligogs' 25th anniversary. Katy captured the essence of these looks in her signature style, turning fleeting moments into timeless art. These illustrations are a celebration of the community of women we’ve built over the last 25 years. 

If you're inspired to recreate some of these looks, our collections are designed precisely for such occasions. Take our gilets, for instance, made in England with high quality materials that keep you warm without weighing you down, perfect for layering over a shirt on a breezy fair day. Or our jackets, like the Knightsbridge Sky Blue Wool Jacket, which offers that sophisticated and tailored look, ideal for elevating any casual outfit. And don't forget the footwear: our Beth Suede Boots scream cowgirl chic, while our Sloane Waterproof Boots are a true English countryside staple. 

Looking back, this Ladies' Day wasn't just about the competition, it was a testament to the community we've built over 25 years. From our humble beginnings with colorful Wellington boots to a full range of clothing and accessories, Welligogs has always been about empowering women to embrace their lifestyles with confidence. Events like this remind us of the joy in dressing up for everyday, whether it's a fair, a family outing, or simply a stroll through the countryside. If you missed out this year, mark your calendars for the next. In the meantime, head to our Instagram for a plethora of posts capturing the day's energy, from behind-the-scenes snaps to attendee spotlights.

In a world where fast fashion often leaves you high and dry, it's refreshing to champion pieces that last. So, here's to the women who turned heads at The Game Fair and to you, our loyal customers, for making every day feel a bit like Ladies' Day. Life's too short for boring outfits, especially when there's mud involved. Explore our latest collections at Welligogs, and let's keep the countryside stylish, one well-chosen piece at a time.