An ICU nurse set pulses racing as she was crowned Best Dressed Lady after winning over judges in a creative two-piece outfit at the races.

Mayo native Michelle Manning, who lives in Galway, was crowned Best Dressed Lady at The Lodge at Ashford Castle Ladies Day at Ballinrobe Racecourse on Monday evening.

Michelle impressed judge Marietta Doran with in an outfit that perfectly combined elegance, creativity and attention to detail, earning herself a luxurious getaway to The Lodge at Ashford Castle and a €1,000 cash prize. The four other stylish finalists also received dinner for two at Wilde’s Restaurant at The Lodge.

Showcasing both style and sustainability, Michelle’s winning look featured an elegant two-piece with gingham top purchased on Vinted just last week, paired with a cream midi skirt from Poca & Poca.

Her striking hat was from Not Just Hats by Caron Hogan in Galway, while her bag and shoes were from Zara. Adding a personal touch to the ensemble, Michelle handcrafted her own earrings using spare buttons from her top and completed the look with a treasured gold brooch borrowed from her mother, Phil.

Michelle told EVOKE: ‘I’m thrilled. It is so exciting because it is really stiff competition. I won in Naas in 2019 wearing the same skirt. I recycled it for the Ballinrobes races. It is a very lucky skirt.’

Her engineer husband Niall helped sew two buttons from her gingham top to make stylish earrings.

‘My husband glued them for me last night. It was crazy. I’m sure I’ll bring the hubby, Niall, to The Lodge now after making the earrings for me. He deserves it,’ she said laughing.

The mum-of four has a busy week ahead after her win. She told how both her youngest and oldest daughters are finishing up pre-school and secondary school, respectively.

‘It will be a crazy, emotional week so this is great fun,’ said the 44-year-old.