THESE stylish sisters-in-law topped the fashion stakes in the Yorkshire’s Best Dressed Lady competition at Doncaster Races.

Natalie Fowler, 29, and Helena Towse, 39, scooped the first and second prizes respectively at the race day on Thursday, cutting a striking picture with tailor-made hats and fashion-conscious contemporary outfits.

Natalie, an account manager from York, had already won the York Best Dressed Lady title last month in an equestrian-style outfit of a deep red and black striped corset and skirt by Kelly Ewing, and an avant-garde hat created by York-based milliner to the stars Elizabeth Parker, who makes bespoke hats to order and counts musicians Alison Goldfrapp, The Prodigy and Faithless on her client list.

Natalie once again beat off the competition in a stunning hat that had been designed especially and finished off with a twist to suit her face shape and leggy frame.

Helena, who claimed the second prize, is the sister of Natalie’s husband, Richard.

A teacher at St Aelred’s RC Primary School in York, Helena also won the Doncaster Best Dressed Lady title earlier in the day in her black jacket and grey striped skirt and a striking head piece, also designed by Elizabeth Parker.

“We come to the races regularly, and always try make a special effort,” said Helena.

“We always have a fantastic time, and it’s a privilege to wear a fabulous creation from such a talented designer.”

Elizabeth Parker said she was “delighted” that creative hats had contributed to the pair being at the front runners in the fashion stakes.

“The hats were both bespoke and took a lot of hard work, but it clearly paid off,” she said.

“They are both good friends of mine and look fantastic modelling my creations.

“I am thrilled for them both that they came first and second.”