Following two sell-out years, Best Dressed at Brunch returns to The Hardiman Hotel for its third consecutive year, cementing its place as one of Galway Race Week’s most anticipated fashion events.
Having firmly established itself as a highlight of Galway Race Week, the event brings together fashion lovers, racegoers, and style enthusiasts for an afternoon of glamour, entertainment, and incredible prizes in the iconic surroundings of The Hardiman Hotel.
Guests will enjoy a welcome drink, delicious brunch, bubbles, music, and entertainment before our expert judging panel crowns this year’s most stylish attendees. The celebrations continue afterwards, with guests perfectly placed to head straight to Ballybrit Racecourse for an afternoon at the races.
Meet the Judges
Returning for a third year is Emily-Jean, founder of Emily Jean Atelier, award-winning milliner, accessories designer and personal stylist. Based in Galway, Emily-Jean is renowned for her elegant occasion wear styling, luxury accessories, and expert eye for race-day fashion. A respected figure in Irish fashion, she is delighted to return to The Hardiman as a judge for 2026.
Also returning is Martina O’Donovan, owner of Harper Boutique and one of Ireland’s most respected fashion retailers. With almost two decades of experience dressing racegoers and fashion-conscious women, Martina is known for her impeccable taste, attention to detail and passion for Galway Race Week, making her a valued member of the judging panel once again.
Joining the panel for the first time is Rebecca Rose, qualified fashion stylist, two-time winner of the Best Celebrity Stylist Award at the Goss.ie Awards, regular stylist on Ireland AM and in-house stylist for Athlone Towncentre. Rebecca brings a wealth of industry expertise and a contemporary eye for fashion to this year’s competition.
Located on Eyre Square, The Hardiman Hotel has long been synonymous with Galway Race Week, style, and sophistication. The perfect setting for a fashion-focused event, the hotel provides an elegant backdrop for what has become one of the most sought-after social occasions of Race Week.
Best Dressed at Brunch takes place from 1pm – 4pm on Wednesday, 29th July at The Hardiman Hotel; and with demand growing year-on-year, availability is expected to be limited.
For tickets and further information visit: https://www.thehardiman.ie/best-dressed-at-brunch-2026/
Best Dressed at Brunch at The Hardiman – where Galway Race Week begins in style.
