Georgia Fowler shares her race-ready style and beauty tips

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4th Oct 2019

To anyone in the know, Victoria’s Secret model Georgia Fowler is one of New Zealand’s most successful model exports. Based in New York – though she is rarely at home, instead traveling the globe for work – Fowler has walked the runways of Chanel, Elie Saab, Off White and Balmain, solidifying herself as one of the most in-demand models working in the industry today.  

Ahead of her special guest appearance at the Stella Artois Caulfield Cup Carnival on Saturday October 19, Fowler (who recently returned to Australia from Paris Fashion Week) chatted to Vogue about what she’s most looking forward to this racing season, the importance of keeping comfort in mind even when dressing for the occasion, and why social media is king for aspiring models. 

You are headed to Australia for the 2019 Stella Artois Caulfield Cup Carnival. What are you most looking forward to about the day?

“Aside from being back in Australia, and seeing some of the highest quality horse racing, I’m excited to see what fashion is on show and how this year’s theme of New York City (my current hometown) is brought to the track.”

Your schedule takes you all over the world, often on short notice. How far in advance did you begin planning your race day outfit, and did you work with a stylist on it?

“Luckily enough, this is one event I have been able to plan into my calendar with significant notice, so I will have time to do a fitting with my stylist Jess Pecoraro. I’ve worked with her for years on most of my major events in Australia, and she always seems to find the perfect mix of international and homegrown designers.”

Which designers do you look to for race day inspiration?

“I am still unsure of my look, but I always try to choose an outfit that is classic enough that I will never look back and regret it, but while still following current trends and [being] daring enough to make an impact. I am loving Dion Lee, Toni Maticevski and Ellery as they have a classic aesthetic whilst still pushing boundaries.”

What are your top tips on dressing for the Stella Artois Caulfield Cup Carnival?

“I think whilst dressing for the races is very different from our everyday dressing, you should aim to still feel like yourself and [feel] comfortable in your outfit choice. Stick to the trends or themes that are most you, or keep the dress simple and add the drama with accessories instead.”

What do you make sure to pack with you in your handbag for a day at the races?

“I will always keep a top up of lipstick, and perhaps some powder if it’s going to be a hot day. I will always make sure to have full battery [on my phone] before the day begins. And of course, some betting money.”

Are there any racing trends you’d like to see finally put to rest?

“I’m not a fan of tiaras as headpieces, or looks that seem costume-like.”

Are there any particular Australian or New Zealand designers you love to wear when back home and abroad?

“Australian and Kiwi designers are some of my favourite even on a global scale. I love how fashion forward yet effortless the designs are, which means pieces can be taken from day to night. Some of my favourites are Dion Lee, Ellery, Christopher Esber and Paris Georgia.”

Spring racing is steeped in tradition and rules of etiquette when it comes to getting dressed. Do you abide by these or do you think racing season should give way to being playful with fashion?

“I think the dress code of the races adds to the sense of occasion and history, therefore I enjoy adhering to the rules and hope racegoers will continue to dress up for the event. I think the dress code can still be upheld whilst adding in more modern fashion trends.”

What trends do you think we’ll see at the Stella Artois Caulfield Cup?

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“I am expecting to see a hint of ’80s nostalgia, metallics, interesting shapes and textures. I personally love interesting cuts and shapes, so am excited for my fitting and seeing what options we have.”

Off the racecourse, how would you define your personal style?

“I like to think my style is easy going, classic and adaptable. I’m not big on trends and though I love a few standout pieces a season, I tend to buy fashion that can be worn many ways (thus easy to travel with) and can stand the test of time.”

You have a following of 993,000 on Instagram. How important is social media for working models and do you like to use it to interact with your fans?

“Social media is a huge part of a model’s job. Even if not posting for the brand that you are modeling for directly, your reach is a demonstration to the client of how well you can market and therefore how successful of a model you may be at marketing their brand. I love that I’m able to showcase any work or viewpoints I’m passionate about and interact with fans, though I definitely have my days.

I find it is a challenge to find the appropriate balance between being completely transparent with your fan base and being able to keep an element of privacy, or just being able to live without sharing every detail or thinking about a social presence.”

Given so many young women look up to you, how would you advise aspiring models looking to break into the industry?

“Most importantly I think you need to have grit in this industry. Success is not overnight for most and if it is, it can be very fleeting. The best careers I know come from relationship building, never giving up and always being a joy to work with on set so you continue to get rebooked. I think being a pretty face is less and less important, and these days it’s about showing personality and work ethic.”