Pressure on fashionista from 'spitting tacks' husband

Reporter·NZ Herald·

11 Mar, 2016 04:00 PM2 mins to read

Margaux Davison is a finalist in this weekend's Viva Prix de Fashion at Ellerslie. Photo / Supplied

Margaux Davison is hoping a winning bet with her husband will result in her being crowned the queen of the catwalk at Ellerslie racecourse today.

The 35-year-old Matamata woman will join other regional Fashion in the Fields winners in the Viva Prix de Fashion show; one of the glamour off-course events during Auckland Cup Day.

Up for grabs is a $30,000 prize package and the chance to represent New Zealand on the catwalk during the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

Mrs Davison's first foray into the world of fashion began with a bet with her husband, Simms Davison, that she'd never even make it on to the runway.

"I had bought quite an expensive dress, which my husband said I was only allowed to do if I entered Fashion in the Fields," she said.

"It spiralled into him betting I'd back out at the last minute."

Following her success at Matamata two weeks ago she appeared on the catwalk at last weekend's Derby Day at Ellerslie.

Mrs Davison, who typically spends her days dressed in "jeans and a cami", said fashion was an expensive business. Her prize-winning outfit from Matamata included a deep red dress, from London label Self Portrait, a matching red hat, tan gloves, bolero and neat open-toed shoes.

"I've spent enough dollars for my husband to start spitting tacks."

She'd saved some dollars, thanks to having friends do her hair and makeup " but said there was a lot of costly detail and grooming involved.

"It's not just about the nice dress," she said. "You've got your nails, your skin, tan, gloves, shoes, the hat ... the way you hold yourself, the hair, makeup and jewellery."

She said creativity was also a key part of every outfit. "You have got to follow trends to a degree ... but you also need to stand out."

Mrs Davison was hopeful but realistic about her chances.

"It would be awesome to win, but there is tough competition and I'm obviously a bit of a rookie against many beautiful girls who are competing."