Bold Kentucky Derby Dresses Lead Fashion at 150th Run for the Roses

On By Vaseline

Fashion has been almost as important as the horse race at Churchill Downs since the first Kentucky Derby in 1875. Now, 150 years later, some might argue that the two are equal.

“The fashion at this year’s Derby is so elevated that it will cement the Kentucky Derby in American culture,” said Christine A. Moore, a prominent Kentucky Derby milliner. “And fashion will only get better from here on out, I guarantee it.”

Striking hats, striking brightly colored dresses, chic shoes and accessories were the staples of the well-dressed Kentucky Derby weekend racing fan who showed up spectacularly at Churchill Downs on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

While a great dress in bright colors and patterns galore is a must, what sets the Kentucky Derby apart from other elegant events is the way you top it off.

Bill and Angie Burns, from Jeffersonville, Indiana, have been coming to the Derby for 20 years. Angie says the hat is “the most important thing” and always chooses it first when choosing an outfit.

“I usually do a fascinator. I’ve made big hats in the past, but lately they’ve all been fascinators,” Angie Burns said.

The couple, coordinating in shades of pink, said they take turns taking the lead on their Derby Week outfits.

“It depends on who shops first,” Bill Burns said with a laugh.

For the 150th Kentucky Derby, wide-brimmed hats were again the most popular style, but smaller fascinators worn on a headband gave the traditional derby hat a run for its money.

Olivia Doss and Tim Doss from Floyds Knob, Indiana, looked picture-perfect in a carefully coordinated ensemble with shades of pale pink, pale blue and a hint of mint green. While some spent months choosing their outfit, the Doss couple did it on the spot. They bought tickets for Thurby on Wednesday night and put together their carefully coordinated outfit within hours.

“I just completely agree with what she says,” Tim Doss said. “She used to have a boutique, so I trust her.”

You might like: Here’s how to order The Courier Journal’s book “150 Years of the Kentucky Derby.”

Men may not have as many creative options as women in the hat department, but a nice fedora with colorful accents will make them feel part of the party.

Bill Burns said this is only his second or third year wearing a hat. “I’m not a big hat person, but it’s a time when I can wear a hat and not feel like I’m sticking out. I mingle.”

Due to the historical significance of the 150th Kentucky Derby, shades of red – a nod to the nickname “Run for the Roses” – and silk rose decorations were seen throughout the track.

Alexandra Cantelmo and Michael Cieri spent a lot of time on their outfits for their first Kentucky Derby.

“I ordered almost 50 dresses from Amazon until I came up with this floral dress with red roses,” Cantelmo said. “I’ve been scouring the internet for months to find out how all of you in Kentucky dress for the Derby.”

Fans started early, months before the races, to ensure every piece of their Kentucky Derby wardrobe was a stunner.

“Last year was my first year for the Derby and I would say my classes are versatile, have pockets to hold a lot of stuff and make you look good,” said David Maldonado of Chicago.

From head to toe, there’s nothing like dressing up for ‘The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports’, and nothing like cheering on your favorite in style.

“Derby week is the best week of the entire calendar year,” said Dana Newman of Louisville. “Be comfortable, step outside your comfort zone and add a little dazzle, make sure you feel spectacular and you’ll definitely have fun!”

Reach has reporter Kirby Adams at [email protected].