RIXO Designs The Jockey Silks For Goodwood’s Markel Magnolia Cup

Goodwood bound this year? Then you’ll want to tune into the Markel Magnolia Cup. Running for its 14th edition this year, the race raises vital funds for women-focused charities – and sees 12 inspiration women from all backgrounds step into the role of jockey for the day. The Markel Magnolia Cup has raised over £2.7 million for charity since its inception in 2011, but this year the race has its own twist. In an event first, the Goodwood Talent in Fashion Award winner has designed the silks each jockey will wear on the track – and this year’s recipient is none other than London-based label RIXO. We caught up with RIXO founders Henriette Rix and Orlagh McCloskey at the grand unveiling of the Markel Magnolia Cup silks, to chat all things Goodwood Festival, riding and female empowerment.

RIXO On Designing Jockey Silks For Qatar Goodwood Festival

Hi Henrietta, hi Orlagh – how are things going?

We’re both good – and of course, we’re extremely excited about revealing our one off gowns for Goodwood.

Summer racing is upon us – what’s your favourite thing about the season?

My favourite thing about the season is seeing so many #humansofrixo at the races all throughout summer, I love looking at our tagged IG pictures on RIXO’s Instagram to see how our community has worn, styled and had fun in our pieces.

What does it mean for you both to be this year’s recipient of the Goodwood Talent in Fashion Award?

It means so much, we’re absolutely delighted to have won and to be sitting alongside some brilliant alumni who have won it in the past.

(c) Simon Jacobs/PA Media Assignments

And what kind of relationship did you have with Goodwood before the announcement? Have you always been fans of Qatar Goodwood Festival, or other Goodwood events?

Yes, it’s such a historical and important location – we’ve always admired the heritage and elegance of Goodwood. While we hadn’t partnered directly before this announcement, we often look to the quintessential British past for inspiration. The Qatar Goodwood Festival, in particular, blends tradition with excitement in a way that really resonates with our brand ethos.

Let’s talk about this year’s jockey silks. This is the first time an Award recipient is designing all 12 silks for the Markel Magnolia Cup riders – does it feel like quite a big moment for RIXO?

Absolutely – it’s a huge honour for us and a really proud moment. Designing all 12 silks is a first not only for RIXO but for the Award itself, and we’re thrilled to be part of such an iconic event that champions female empowerment and creativity. It’s a really special project that means a lot to us both professionally and personally. To celebrate we’re taking all our head office team to come to the races to watch and celebrate – and over 90 percent of our team is female so it feels like the perfect partnership!

(c) Simon Jacobs/PA Media Assignments

What was the process of designing the silks like? Can you talk us through inspirations, mood boards, any exchanges that really stood out for you?

The process was a joy from start to finish. We started with archival RIXO prints, pulling in strong print clashes that reflect the individuality of each rider. Our mood boards were filled with vibrant colours. What stood out most was the energy and purpose behind the event – it pushed us to make each silk feel powerful and personal.

Did you get to dig into the history of racing silks when doing any research?

Yes, it was fascinating. Racing silks have such a rich tradition, dating back centuries. We were particularly inspired by the bold geometric shapes and how they were originally designed to help spectators identify jockeys from a distance. We wanted to respect that legacy while giving it a RIXO twist – bringing in our signature prints and colours in a way that still feels authentic to the sport.

And are there any standouts that you’d like to highlight, or had a lot of fun in particular making?

It’s too hard to pick! But we might all place a bet on a horse on the day!

The Markel Magnolia Cup 2025 Riders (L to R) Lois Logan, Sienna Anderson, Kate Hutchins, Matilda Alexander, Charlotte Emery, Sabaya Verger, Nina Barbour, Sophie Forsyth, Jaimee Broadley, Madeleine Bunbury, Philippa Hartrick-Morris and Elizabeth Hiscox (c) Simon Jacobs/PA Media Assignments

You’ve also had the opportunity to design three vintage style gowns inspired by Goodwood House – can you give us any hints of what to expect?

They’re romantic, timeless and very RIXO. Each gown draws from the rich interiors and grand detailing of Goodwood House – think heritage wallpaper prints, antique embroidery references, and flowing silhouettes that capture a sense of old-world glamour. We wanted the gowns to feel like something you’d wear to a modern-day grand garden party.

Any words of encouragement/luck for this year’s Markel Magnolia Cup riders?

We’ll be cheering each and every one of you on every step of the way! Wear your silks with pride – you’re already champions in our eyes.

Anything else you’d like our readers to know?

Just how proud and grateful we are to be part of something so special. The Markel Magnolia Cup isn’t just about racing – it’s about empowerment, courage and community. At RIXO, we’ve always believed in celebrating women and their stories, and this event does exactly that. We can’t wait to see the riders cross that finish line, looking – and feeling – amazing.

Meet The Riders