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On Trend: Dressing for the Derby

Not doing festival-type things this weekend? Get in the Southern spirit with a Kentucky Derby party!

Saturday’s Derby is a time-honored Southern tradition complete with every good Southerner’s favorite things: moderate gambling, socially-acceptable bourbon imbibing before noon and playing dress up. Maybe those are just this Southerner’s favorite things. Plus, a race that only lasts two minutes? Sign. Me. UP.

Since this is not a cocktail blog where I can go on and on about mint juleps and their glorious silver vessels, let’s address your attire. Derby fashion is a key part of the experience. Think your Sunday best, during the summer. Dust off the seersucker. Get out the eyelet. Lightweight fabrics are the way to go here, even if you’re not going to the actual Derby.

Gentlemen, here’s the chance for you to get some use out of that summer suit. Grab a fun tie (or bow tie) and a pocket square so you’re just as fashionable as the gals. And really, everyone loves a guy in a properly-tailored suit.

Ladies, this is the perfect opportunity to get more use out of those Easter dresses. I own two white dresses that I keep in rotation for this event, or any event in the summer when I need to be dressed “like a lady.” The hem is modest, a cardigan can easily be paired with it, and there are pockets. The dress is important, but it’s not the star of the show. Which leads me to…

HATS. For me—and a ton of other people—the Derby is all about hats. I never pass up an opportunity to wear a large hat, so this is the main reason Derby parties are in my wheelhouse (well, hats and bourbon). It’s 50% about my sunburn prevention, 50% a perfect opportunity to hide my judgmental face. You can go over-the-top, but I would recommend really elaborate hats only if you’re actually at Churchill Downs. Or, if there’s money on the line.

Options for the ladies:

Hat tip: Most of my hats have come from random vacations (which is of no help to you, sorry), Dillard’s and Marshalls. Dillard’s definitely has the best selection of amazing church lady hats, and this is the perfect opportunity to wear them. Well, if you are not already wearing them to church.

Options for the gentlemen:

Show us how you’re Derbying—or celebrating spring festivals—with the hashtag #225Style.