The time-honoured Lillian Frank AM MBE Millinery Award was awarded to Cynthia Jones – Bryson for an incredible third time in 2023.
VRC
14 August 2024
What year did you win, and in which category? Millinery Award Winner 2015, 2019, 2023.
Tell us about your winning look. My 2023 winning Millinery Award entry, Sway, was the result of several things. Colour combinations always play a key role in my designs, and fuchsia paired with chartreuse has long been a favourite of mine. While researching colours from the ’60s, I came across the classic song Sway (an oldie by Dean Martin, now sung by Michael Bublé). Its lyrics resonated. So that was it – fuchsia, chartreuse, and Sway.
How long did it take to create? I did a lot of sketches and working drawings for the headpiece, as well as the outfit, so the design worked as a whole. I dyed fabric to match the handmade silk flowers in the headpiece for the skirt. The accessories were from my own collection.
How long have you been involved with racing or FOTF? As a milliner of some years, Fashions on the Field has always been a great love of mine. The glamour, the excitement, the madness – I love it.
What went through your mind when you were announced the winner? Standing on the stage with the other top ten finalists – who were all absolutely magnificent – I didn’t think for a minute it would be my name announced as the winner. I’m absolutely thrilled to have won three times.
Is fashion your profession or a personal passion? Millinery (or is it madness?) is my full-time profession.
Has winning opened new doors? Absolutely. I received many enquiries and orders, so I guess my name became a bit more acknowledged and respected.
What makes Flemington’s FOTF competition stand out? Oh, there is nothing quite like it, especially at Flemington. It’s a visual feast for us all – a time to glamour up and strike a pose. Where else can you do that?
Has the win influenced your style? I like to think my style is evolving all the time, and I believe winning such a prestigious award is empowering. It made me brave enough to strive to be deserving and better.
What’s your advice for new entrants? Plan well ahead. Be you.
