Foster Mwaba: Handcrafted Triumph at Flemington

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Meet Foster Mwaba — a rising star whose handcrafted elegance has crossed oceans and made headlines. After winning the Digital Competition, Foster earned finalist honours, coming in second overall, at the 2025 Fashions on the Field competition, held by the Victoria Racing Club at Australia’s iconic Flemington Racecourse for the Melbourne Cup.

What makes her moment so remarkable? Foster crafted her entire outfit with her own hands — a rare feat in a competition often dominated by high-end designers and ready-to-wear labels. And she did so outside Australia, making this recognition a major international achievement in race-day style. In other words: this isn’t just a look — it’s a statement.

This month, Cantabrian Magazine founder Kia sits down with Foster to talk about inspiration, process, and what it means to represent New Zealand craftsmanship on a global stage.

Q: You handcrafted the entire outfit — what motivated you to do that?

I love adding my own touch to everything I wear. It makes each piece feel more personal and meaningful. I knew I wanted to elevate the base dresses and bring in some DIY elements — the pearl detailing and the custom hat were ways I could make the look truly my own.

Q: What was the creative process like from concept to finished piece?

It all started ten years ago, when I worked in a retirement village and would see incredible images of the residents in their standout outfits — elegant, expressive, and full of personality. I was also inspired by my mother’s favourite outfit that she used to wear for special occasions. When I found a vintage-inspired base dress, I combined three pieces to create the silhouette I wanted. Once the shape came together, I started refining the details: hand-adding pearls to the back for elegance and crafting a matching hat to complete the look. It was an intuitive process, and I loved every step.

Q: What challenges did you face while making the outfit?

Balancing motherhood, work, and the creative process was definitely a challenge! Making three dresses into one cohesive piece took a lot of patience and precision — I wanted every seam to look intentional. The hat also took some trial and error; I wanted it to stand out without overpowering the outfit.

Q: How does it feel to be recognised at such a major event?

It feels amazing! I’m so proud of how everything came together, and being acknowledged like this is a huge confidence boost. I really poured myself into this look, so seeing it appreciated means the world.

Q: What do you think set your entry apart from the others?

I think it was the mix of creativity and attention to detail. The look felt cohesive from head to toe — elegant but unique — with that DIY flair that made it personal. I also think people connected with the story behind it.

Q: What was your favourite detail of the look?

Definitely the pearl details on the back — they added just the right amount of elegance I wanted. And honestly, the hat! It brought everything together and made the whole outfit feel polished and one-of-a-kind.

Q: How did it feel to represent New Zealand on such a major Australian stage?

It was such a proud moment for me. New Zealand has so much creativity and talent, and to be able to showcase that across the Tasman felt really special. I’m honoured to have been part of it.

Q: What has the response been like since the event?

It’s been so positive! Friends, family, and even people I don’t know have reached out to say how much they loved the look. It’s been surreal — but in the best way.

Q: What’s next for you — in fashion, design or personally?

I’d love to keep exploring fashion and creating one-off looks. This experience reminded me how much joy I get from styling and making, so I’m open to where that leads — whether it’s more competitions, collaborations, or just growing my creative practice.

Q: Do you have advice for other creatives or fashion lovers wanting to enter major competitions?

Absolutely — trust your vision! Even if it’s different or outside the box, lean into it. Put love into the details, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Most importantly, enjoy the process — that joy shines through in your final look.

A Mother’s Influence

For Foster Mwaba, style is more than fabric and form — it’s memory.

She recalls watching her mother dress for special occasions, always with care and quiet confidence.

“My mother’s favourite outfit was elegant but full of personality,” Foster says. “It reminded me that fashion is emotional — it tells a story.”

That legacy of grace and individuality became the thread that guided her Flemington look — a handmade homage to the women who inspire her, stitched with sentiment and strength.

Handcrafted, heartfelt, and wholly her own — Foster Mwaba’s Flemington moment isn’t just a personal milestone, it’s a celebration of creativity without borders. Her story reminds us that true style begins with vision, courage, and the confidence to stitch your own path.