Here's What to Wear to the Kentucky Derby
- Try a Fascinator. Fascinators—smaller headpieces worn on a headband or a comb—have also become popular at the Derby in recent years, thanks to fans of the British royal family.
- White Fascinator. A smaller size doesn't have to mean low drama—take the opportunity to go for some eye-catching height.
- The Swan. ...
What should you wear to the Derby?
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to Derby dressing, in part because what you wear has much to do with where you plan to spend the day.
How to wear a hat for the Kentucky Derby?
The most important thing you need to know is that they should be worn sockless. Top it all off with a fedora or bowler hat for the complete Kentucky Derby look. Men's Derby hats are generally solid in color and inspired by the style from the 1920s. Now you are ready to throw back some bourbon and tie on a bowtie.
What should I pack for my Kentucky Derby trip?
The Kentucky Derby is a long day, with a lot of walking, so pack accessories accordingly. We recommend a large bag (but be sure to stay within the size limit) to carry a pair of shoes, a bottle of water, your program, sunglasses, sunscreen, a poncho, and anything else you might need during the day.
What color sunglasses to wear with a Derby dress and hat?
Steer away from sunglasses in dark colors like black and instead opt for lighter shades like white, crème, rose gold, or blush pink which will pair really nicely with the pastel colors of your derby dress and hat. And, of course, we saved the best for last: your hat.
What is Derby Day attire?
Slacks and a button-down shirt with tie is acceptable attire. Show your Derby spirit and break out some vibrant spring colors. Backyard Party Relax and be comfortable. Jeans and even shorts are appropriate for a more informal affair.
What colour do you wear on Derby Day?
Black and WhiteBlack and White Day fashion. The first day of the Carnival, Derby Day is known for its strict black and white dress code. The outfit that you choose for the day must follow the monochromatic rule. This is the classiest of the Carnival days. “Derby Day is black and white, so you want to be wearing either black or white.
Is there a dress code to attend the Kentucky Derby?
Business casual is required for the Derby Room, which means: Jackets and Blazers. Vests, collared shirts and sweaters. Dresses.
What do you wear to a horse Derby?
Pastels, tropical colors, plaids and stripes are all popular choices for an appearance at Churchill Downs. Kentucky Derby is the place for men in pastel. Accessorize with bow ties, hats, suspenders, and leather bags.
Can ladies wear black to the races?
You can wear black to the races, although it's fun to get suited up for the races and your outfit should mirror that. Therefore, consider choosing a colourful or seasonal outfit that you wouldn't necessarily choose. Black is trendy, but you can play around with bold colours for the races.
What kind of dress do you wear to the races?
Wear anything casual like denim, sportswear, untailored pants and jackets, leggings, sneakers or thongs (shoes that go between the first two toes). Show too much skin – bare midriffs (including cut-outs) are a no-no, as are strapless dresses or spaghetti straps in members' areas. Avoid shorts and short playsuits.
What do ladies wear to the Kentucky Derby?
In the reserved seating areas (grandstand, clubhouse, suites and corporate hospitality areas), ladies typically wear spring dresses, pastel-colored suits, or bold separates that coordinate with their Derby headwear and accessories.
Can I wear Black to the Kentucky Derby?
"Black and white or navy and white are traditional spectator color combinations at the race track," said Ross. "They are always in style."
Why do people dress weird for Kentucky Derby?
The dress code is not meant to be restricting to the men or women attendees, but rather to create the experience the Kentucky Derby's founder was seeking. "It's part of what's so fun and it's a part of that experience.
What do ladies wear to horse races?
Ladies, dress in your favorite pastels, floral prints, and classic styles. Men, neutral suits are still your best bet, but feel free to add a pop color with your shirt and/or tie. Heels or flats are fine for the ladies.
Can you wear jeans to Kentucky Derby?
Jackets and blazers optional, vests, shirts with collars, sweaters, dresses, pantsuits, dress jeans and slacks are appropriate, as are golf shorts, dress shorts and capris. Worn or torn garments, halter tops, athletic wear, frayed or torn denim and midriff tops are considered inappropriate attire.
What do you wear to a horse race in the winter?
A wool or wool-blend fabric is the perfect choice for a cold weather day at the races. Limiting your need to layer, a wool dress is heavier than most other fabrics, locking in a little extra warmth. This will allow you to stay comfortable outdoors, so you don't miss a beat.
Can you wear black to the Derby?
"Black and white or navy and white are traditional spectator color combinations at the race track," said Ross. "They are always in style."
What do ladies wear to the Kentucky Derby?
In the reserved seating areas (grandstand, clubhouse, suites and corporate hospitality areas), ladies typically wear spring dresses, pastel-colored suits, or bold separates that coordinate with their Derby headwear and accessories.
Why is Derby Day black and white?
Black is best for hiding spills (white, not so much) On a day that inevitably involves grass, Champagne, chicken sandwiches and countless lipstick touch-ups the potential for spillage is great. Black is your best chance of leaving the track looking as polished as when you arrive.
What should I wear to the Kentucky Derby 2022?
#1 Colors Bright, bold colors will help make your best impression. Bring… Wearing a hat to the Kentucky Derby is believed to bear good luck! The long-established fashion was started by the women, however, over the last few years, many men have taken part in the tradition as well.
What to wear in Churchill Downs?
While you can wear just about anything you want into the infield on Oaks and Derby Day, you'll want to review the official Churchill Downs dress code for the other areas of the racetrack. For instance, if your seats are located in the Finish Line Suites, you are asked to dress "business casual.". That means dresses, pantsuits, capri pants ...
What is a hat at the Kentucky Derby?
A hat is a right of passage at the Kentucky Derby. When people think of fashion at the races they think about hats and fascinators.
What to put in a tote for sunset?
You might want to include in that tote — sunglasses, a small tube of sunscreen, pen to keep track of your bets, tissues, a phone charger and a lightweight wrap for when the sunsets. (Note: Purses no larger than 12 inches in any dimension are allowed in.)
Is Ross going to be black and white?
For 2019, Ross expects to see a lot of black and white at the track. It's a trend she says was shown in abundance on the runways in New York.
Can you lose a Derby dress?
You can't lose when you wear a flirty spring dress. Polished, comfortable and functional — especially when you're wearing one with pockets to hold your cash and betting tickets — nothing beats a beautiful lightweight dress at the Derby.
What is the dress code for Derby Day?
For instance, for Derby Day (which falls on Saturday 31st October this year), the traditional dress code is black and white. It’s a classic day fashion wise where top hats, lounge suits and pin stripes are suggested for the fellas.
What is the school ladies race day?
I don’t actually go to the races myself but one of the highlights of my social calendar is our school Ladies Race Day – a fundraising event at which 60 or so local mums (we always invite our friends from other schools and kinders), congregate at the host school mum’s home from 11am – 3pm one October Friday for champagne, raffles and general revelry. It’s a cracker of a day and not only a worthwhile fundraiser, but a great opportunity for us all to dip into racing fashion without having to pay for ten hours of babysitting, entry fees and and all the other bits and bobs associated with a big day out.
What is Oaks Day?
Oaks Day is Ladies’ Day and is traditionally a day where feminine styling and details are the order of the day. An Oaks Day appropriate dress will be ideal for engagements, lunches and other dressy day time do’s. While I’ll cover Melbourne Cup and Oaks Day fashion and outfit ideas in more detail in coming weeks, today we’re looking at Derby Day.
Can you wear a LBD with a white dress?
An LBD would work too of course and if you have one in your wardrobe, and then it’s just a matter of introducing some contrasting white with your accessories (more on that below). Perforated details like this statement Karen Millen clutch (8, below) are bang on trend and would suit a a tailored dress. A hat or fascinator with both black and white, such as (4, below) would tie the outfit together.
What do you wear to the Derby?
In the reserved seating areas (grandstand, clubhouse, suites and corporate hospitality areas), ladies typically wear spring dresses, pastel-colored suits, or bold separates that coordinate with their Derby headwear and accessories.
What to wear to the Kentucky Derby?
You can also let the color and excitement of spring inspire you and select a dress full of color, or floral or equine patterns. Vineyard Vines, the official style of the Kentucky Derby, has created a line of dresses just for the Kentucky Derby. And remember to dress in layers, the Kentucky Derby is an outdoor event and the weather can be hard to predict.
Why do people wear hats in the Kentucky Derby?
Wearing a hat to the Kentucky Derby is believed to bear good luck! The long-established fashion was started by the women, however, over the last few years, many men have taken part in the tradition as well. Wearing a hat is much like getting into costume, you might be pleasantly surprised to see what type of character you become. From the fantastic to the sublime, there are no rules or limits.
What kind of hats do women wear at Churchill Downs?
Generally speaking, women wear wide-brimmed, “Southern Belle” inspired Kentucky Derby hats. The hats can be decorated with flowers, feathers, bows and ribbons of any color to express creativity and individuality.
What is the official style of the Kentucky Derby?
Vineyard Vines, the official style of the Kentucky Derby, has created a line of dresses just for the Kentucky Derby. And remember to dress in layers, the Kentucky Derby is an outdoor event and the weather can be hard to predict.
Do you need jewelry for the Kentucky Derby?
Since the hat is the focus of Derby fashion, there's not much need for large, statement jewelry. Let your hat be the attention grabber as your primary accessory and keep the jewelry simple. You can also celebrate the day with Kentucky Derby themed jewelry .
Do men wear hats to the Derby?
Do men really wear hats to the Derby? Yes! A sleek fedora trimmed in colors to match a suit is timeless and always a classic look. Choose straw over felt and you will be cooler!
What to wear to the Derby?
Chic summer sandals, open-toed heels, or chunky pair of espadrilles will do the trick on Derby Day. While the actual Derby race only lasts a few minutes, the day as a whole is quite lengthy, so make sure you're wearing a comfortable pair of shoes.
What to wear to the Kentucky Derby?
Since the Kentucky Derby is all about channeling your inner Southern Belle, it's essential to incorporate bright colors, fun florals, or a classic print, like Sarah Hyland did at the 2015 Derby. A bold style is particularly great for a guest who wants their dress to be the conversation starter.
What are fascinators worn on?
Fascinators—smaller headpieces worn on a headband or a comb —have also become popular at the Derby in recent years, thanks to fans of the British royal family. Many royals, including Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle, have been photographed wearing elegant fascinators through the years, sparking a surge in interest.
What are the best shoes for a Derby race?
The comfortable and sturdy heels on espadrilles are ideal for anyone at the race track on Derby day.
What is the right vibe for Derby Day?
A punchy pop of prints and colors is just the right vibe for a festive Derby Day.
Is the Kentucky Derby a preppy event?
There's no denying that the Kentucky Derby is the preppy fashion event of the year. After all, when else do we get the chance to go truly over the top with Southern-influenced patterns, brights, florals, and of course, the hats. No matter if you're watching the race in Louisville or hosting a Derby-themed party, the key to making the most of any fabulous Derby event is dressing the part.
Do you need a hat for the Kentucky Derby?
Start With Your Kentucky Derby Hat. No Derby outfit is complete without a hat. While wide-brimmed hats are the most popular style, there's really no limit to how creative your headwear can get. In fact, wearing a hat to the Derby is reportedly good luck, according to the Derby itself.
What is the Kentucky Derby?
The Kentucky Derby is prime time to let your preppy style shine, whether you're heading to Churchill Downs or celebrating the race remotely. And while the event is famous for the over-the-top hats guests wear for the occasion, it's the hat and dress combination that really brings the style statement together.
How many dresses can you wear in a maxi dress?
Think of this goddess-esque maxi as a dozen dresses in one—the top can be wrapped in oodles of ways so you can choose whatever neckline or strap style you prefer.
What to wear to the Kentucky Derby?
A suit is definitely the way to go but this isn’t the place to wear your basic black or grey suit you’d normally wear to the office. This is where you can have fun with bright colors and happy prints—think vibrant hues, pastels, stripes, gingham, and plaid. The goal is to standout from the crowd.
What kind of hats do men wear in the Kentucky Derby?
Although women are encourage to go wild with their hats, most men at the Kentucky Derby choose to go the subtle route with a fedora, bowler, or pork pie hat in a sold neutral color.
What color frocks are used in the Kentucky Derby?
Although solid colors look good, if you really want to go all out and make a statement we suggest going with a floral number in a sweet pastel color like pink, powder blue, or lavender. Whatever you do, don’t be afraid of color.
Why is the Kentucky Derby hat called the Picture Hat?
The name “picture hat” comes for the tradition of having the perfect fancy hat to wear in portraits so you look stunning in every photograph.
