The Glamorous Outfits People Will See at the Kentucky Derby

From the crowd singing ‘My Old Kentucky Home’ to the blanket of red roses being presented to the winning horse, Kentucky Derby Day is one of the great traditional events in the American sporting year.

The race has been held since 1875 – and this year will be the 150th year of what some call the “the most exciting two minutes in sport.” 

This year the famous Red Roses Race is held at its traditional venue Churchill Downs, in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday May 4 at 6.45pm.  

It’s the finale of a fortnight’s festival of racing at the track. The big day itself has become a major social event, attracting huge crowds of more than 150,000 people.

What do racegoers wear?

Whether you’re carefully studying the Kentucky Derby odds or just there for the chance to dress up, press images of the 2023 Kentucky Derby revealed that the vast majority were in formal or period outfits – but there were some spectacular exceptions.

The wackiest outfits on display included full animal costumes, weird colour combinations or ridiculous homemade hats. 

One enthusiast was there dressed in a full Fred Flintstone fancy dress costume. Another wore a blue furry hat with horns protruding.

Another pair of men wandered around dressed in strange purple and pink tinged suits while wearing horses heads on their own heads. 

Is there a dress code?

In certain up-scale areas like the Grandstand, Clubhouse and other premium seating sections there is a formal expectation on Derby Day. Both male and female outfits are expected to be very smart and sophisticated. 

Overall though, in the mild Kentucky spring sunshine many visitors opt for spring dresses and suits. Others stick with traditional Derby attire such as colorful hats and fascinators for ladies and bow ties and straw hats for gentlemen. 

While there’s no strict enforcement of any specific dress code – it’s generally expected that attendees stick to the traditional Derby fashion norms. 

What do most people wear?

Racegoers at Churchill Downs typically dress in high quality formal clothes that adhere to traditional Derby fashion norms. It’s all about maintaining and immersing yourself in the classic atmosphere.

For men, the outfit often includes suits in light colors such as seersucker or linen. This is paired with dress shirts and using the option of colorful ties as a way of expressing a flash of individuality. 

Colourful bow ties are a popular choice. It’s a classic way of adding a touch of Southern charm to the ensemble. 

Many men also wear traditional Derby hats, such as fedoras or straw boaters. It can be sunny so a hat has a practical value too.

For women, Derby Day fashion is usually about spring dresses in vibrant colors and floral patterns. Dresses are often knee-length or longer, with styles ranging from classic to trendy. 

Hats are a must-have accessory for most women. The most elaborate, wide-brimmed hats are considered a hallmark of Derby fashion. 

Fascinators, smaller period headpieces adorned with feathers, flowers, or other embellishments, are also popular.

Overall, race-goers at the Kentucky Derby are trying to embrace the elegance and style of the day.

How to plan a Derby Day outfit

When planning what to wear for a day at Churchill Downs, here are some top fashion tips:

• Embrace tradition with standard Derby fashion that includes light-colored suits for men and vibrant spring dresses for women. To play safe, stick to classic styles with a flash of Southern charm.
• Choosing the right hat could be the key to the day. A hat is an essential accessory for Derby day.

For women, a wide hat or a fancy fascinator adorned with feathers or flowers is considered a fun accessory. For men, opt for classic period style, like a fedora or straw boater for the ultimate finishing touch.

• Check the weather forecast and plan any outfit accordingly. Lightweight fabrics like linen or seersucker are ideal for a bright Kentucky spring day – but a light jacket or shawl can provide warmth if it turns cooler.
• Dress for comfort – style is important but so is comfort when you’ll be spending a long day at the race track. Choose outfits and shoes that you can comfortably wear for hours.
• Pay attention to details because the smallest accessories can elevate your outfit. It’s easy to add a flash of color with a statement tie or scarf.
  And don’t forget to coordinate your shoes or boots with your outfit.

Most of all however, don’t worry too much. Have fun with dressing up. The Kentucky Derby is a festive event so don’t be afraid to be bolder than normal with your outfit for the day.

The event is a chance to experiment with bold colors, patterns and accessories to create a special personal style and to fully enjoy the spirit of the Derby.