Why the Heck Do We Wear Those Ridiculous Duds on Derby Day?

For the majority of the great unwashed , the most important part about the Kentucky Derby ( or throw a Derby party ) is the festive food and deglutition , but for the more serious attendant , trim in Derby dud is almost as significant . Colonel M. Lewis Clark , Jr. , is regard to be the launch father of the fancy festival , and in his pursuance to create the outstanding two minutes in sport , he wanted to build an environment that was equal parts puff and luxury . While the first part remains refutable ( is sitting in that Louisville hot up ever comfortable ? ) , the second is on point . Since commence in 1875 , the Kentucky Derby has maintained its stylish report . And when celebrate in vogue , the last thing you want to do is tarnish it by register up in sweats .

Seersucker suits

Joseph Haspel had a with child dreaming : to create a causa that allow gentleman to look sharp without birth to perspire their ball off in the outgrowth . In 1909 the first seersucker suit was tolerate in a New Orleans factory . Hallelujah ! reckon Kentucky ’s near constant humidity , it ’s a no - brainer that the valet of Churchill Downs opted for the lightweight fabric rather of their usual stiff getups . ThisBrooks Brothersfitted seersucker will have you feeling convinced and nerveless , even while put all your money on a horse named Turducken . ( After you ’ve worn it to the Derby , you could recycle it for Easter Brunch or peradventure a Hampton - way wedding – no socks allowed though . )

Floral dresses

Maintaining a Southern belle role is n’t wanton ( especially if you ’re from New England ) , but a flowered mini frock will help the ladies who need it . The 1970s brought mini dress in bold patterns and colouring , both of which continue to make an coming into court in the covered stand . The qualified staple ooze an air of elegance and stratum , alike to this flowered flare pass dress fromAdrianna Papell . Pair it with a spate mint julep – they make everything look good .

Epic hats

If you ’re into hat crowing enough to outfit a small crime syndicate , you ’ve arrive to the right lieu . model after European - way racing result like the Royal Ascot – which demand charwoman to wear financial statement head pieces – the Kentucky Derby quickly became known for its parade of ostentatious chapeaux . Clearly the trend has n’t lost any steam since the derby made its first official entry , but the styles all depend on where attendees sit . Hats tend to be more elegant in the seated sections of Churchill Downs , while the more eccentric variety are often found on the fringe . calculate on which you ’d rather be part of , Nordstrom has a compendium of derby hats ( likethisandthis ) that ’ll get the job done .

Knit belts

After you gorge yourself on seven raging brown sandwiches , you ’re going to ask that cockle bash , which will tease easily and without notice . The fabric is pretty forgiving , making it all acceptable to continue stuffing your nerve with all that delectable food . ThisPatchwork Silks Canvas Club Beltfrom Vineyard Vines will bring a pappa of color to that suit while making your overhanging intestine feel fairly darn well-to-do .

Bright ties

One - up that gentlewoman booster you ’ve been eyeball for the past few months in a bold - colored association that ’ll make you stick out . Your choice of horse may not be a sure stakes , butthis Race Day Tiefrom Vineyard Vines will be .

Winged-tip loafers

outwear sneakers on the daily may be acceptable for your everyday errands , but when it come to seersucker suits and the women who love them , trading in your distinctive squawk for the Kentucky Derby is a must . melt to compile your winning in these sleekBurberryloafers . The astronomical toll rag will make up for itself if you place the right bets , so educate yourself .