Royal fashionista Zara leads the style race at Cheltenham

By Maysa Rawi

Back to black: Zara turns heads in the unsaddling enclosure yesterday at Cheltenham in failsafe black coat and skinny jeans

Zara Phillips turned heads in the unsaddling enclosure at the Cheltenham Festival looking every inch the Royal fashionista as she stood out from the crowd.

The glamorous equestrienne opted for failsafe black, working the demure look with a trendy headband and Anya Hindmarch bag.

But she did remember to show off a bolder side, adding a pair of patent lace-up heels to jazz up the elegant outfit.


Well-heeled: Zara shows off her trendy patent heels


It appeared to be a day out for the girls as there was no sign of rugby player fiance Mike Tindall.

And the blonde seemed in high spirits as she consulted her race card during the four-day Gloucestershire event, which started yesterday.

The gifted rider is sure to make a more elaborate fashion statement at Ladies Day on Thursday however as there will no doubt be a kaleidoscope of style hits - and misses.

Judging by her celebratory cheers, the Queen's granddaughter was pleased with the way the race turned out - despite the recent blow that she might not be able to defend her title in the U.S in autumn.

Zara, 28, revealed she will will not compete in the World Equestrian Games with her horse Toytown due to the animal's injuries.


High spirits: The young Royal flashes a smile as she consults her race card during the four-day event


Celebration: Zara punches the air as she watches the race

Zara said: 'We are just going quietly with him. He doesn't owe me anything - there is no pressure.

'If you asked me right now if I might be selected to take another horse I'd have to say the odds are long.

'There are some very good riders and horses already in contention. But a good result at Badminton could change that, who knows?'

Meanwhile Cheltenham regular James Nesbitt took in the view as he sipped a beer


Passion: Irish actor James Nesbitt enjoys the race, with a personal interest in the results, as he co-owns Arkle Chase hopeful Riverside Theatre


The Irish actor is the new co-owner of Arkle Chase hopeful Riverside Theatre, who has proved has a dream first venture into racehorse ownership.

He said: 'It has always be a great social occasion and I've been to the Cheltenham Festival around 10 times, although this year will be very different.

'We called him Riverside Theatre because that is where it all started for me, playing The Artful Dodger in Coleraine 32 years ago.'


Victory: Quevega and Ruby Walsh win The David Nicholson Mares' Hurdle Race


source: dailymail