The Kentucky Derby is known for many things, including horses and mint juleps, but one of the most iconic traditions of the event is wearing a proper Derby hat. The tradition of wearing eye-catching attire to the Derby dates back to the 1870s, when the founder of the race, Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., was inspired by fashionable dress codes at events like Ascot in Britain and Paris’s Grand Prix. He wanted to transform his racetrack from a place of ill-repute to one for well-heeled high society, and the tradition of wearing extravagant hats was born.
The first Kentucky Derby took place on a sunny spring Monday in 1875, with over 10,000 spectators in attendance. The New York Times reported on not only the racing but also the fashion, noting that the grandstand was filled with a brilliant assemblage of well-dressed ladies and gentlemen. Clark’s plan to attract high society to the event was a success, and the passion for horses, gambling, and partying in stylish attire has endured as a key component of the Derby ever since.
This year marked the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, and attendees did not hold back in their fashion choices. From wide-brimmed hats adorned with spring florals and soft feathers to jockey helmets decorated with plastic stallions and horse heads, the crowd embraced the Derby tradition of wearing eye-catching headwear with enthusiasm. Whether paired with pastel-colored dresses or seersucker suits, the Derby hats were a standout feature of the event.
The Kentucky Derby has become synonymous with extravagant fashion, and the tradition of wearing elaborate hats has only grown over the years. Attendees often spend months planning and designing their Derby hats, with some opting for custom creations that cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The hats have become a form of self-expression, with each attendee aiming to stand out in the crowd with their unique and eye-catching headwear.
In addition to the fashion spectacle, the Kentucky Derby is also a place to see and be seen. Celebrities, socialites, and high society members from around the world flock to Churchill Downs for the event, adding to the glamour and allure of the Derby. The atmosphere is one of excitement and elegance, with attendees sipping on mint juleps and placing bets on the races while showcasing their finest attire and most impressive hats.
Overall, the tradition of wearing elaborate hats to the Kentucky Derby has become as iconic as the race itself. From its humble beginnings in the 1870s to the extravagant displays seen at the 150th running of the event, the Derby hat has remained a symbol of style and sophistication at America’s most famous horse race. Whether adorned with feathers, flowers, or even miniature horses, the Derby hat is a must-have accessory for anyone looking to fully embrace the spirit of the event.
