Copyright: Flickr user Velo Steve
If you’re fortunate enough to be attending the most famous of the Triple Crown horse races this spring, you’re probably wondering what kind of headwear to sport. Don’t fret too much! There are at least five distinct styles of hats that women gravitate towards. In order to determine which is best for you, first think about what your outfit will look like and then consider what kind of statement you’d like to make. Those two things will give you a solid starting point in choosing the perfect Kentucky Derby topper.
1. Big & Bold:
This kind of hat defines the grandeur of the Kentucky Derby. The brims are wide – VERY wide. They are so large that you wonder how these women don’t topple over when walking! Basically, they make you stop and stare. This kind of hat goes well with an understated, yet coordinated outfit. Let the hat take all of the attention! It’s best worn if you have seats in a private area where you won’t be mingling too much through the crowd. And be prepared to be photographed!
2. Trendy Fascinator:
The fascinator is a headpiece that attaches by comb, clip, or headband. Commonly adorned with feathers or flowers, they’ve become trendy recently through their unofficial ambassador – the gal formerly known as Kate Middleton. The younger generation has fallen in love with fascinators since they’re a fun alternative to the standard hat. They can be as small as a single flower or as large as a Christmas present on your head – and all are acceptable at the Derby! Rock this look with a trendy dress to match.
3. Perfectly Classic:
More than half of the hats at the Derby fall into this category. Classic hats are the easiest hats to purchase off the rack because they can be found almost anywhere in the spring – in department stores, discount outlets, hat shops, and eBay. Sometimes referred to as “church hats”, they are perfectly classic and can be found in any number of colors to match your outfit. They are also easier on the wallet and allow you to blend in seamlessly with the crowd.
4. Conversation Piece:
These hats are both funny and bizarre at the same time, and they always elicit some form of conversation. Typically made by hand, they are somehow associated with the Derby. We’ve seen hats made to look like horses, hats topped with horses, hats covered in money (for luck!), even a hat that was a replica of the Twin Spires! These hats make people laugh and are almost always photographed. They are worn by women and men alike and mostly by those with general admission tickets, but make no mistake that they’re welcome anywhere. So if you don’t take yourself too seriously, get creative!
5. Do-it-Yourself:
Sometimes finding the perfect hat online or in specialty hat shops simply doesn’t work. The selection doesn’t match the dress that you just have to wear or you’d much rather spend the money betting on your favorite horse. That’s okay! Start with an ordinary, blank canvas of a hat and grab your glue gun. Craft stores have an endless selection of ribbon, flowers, feathers, and beading that will turn your head into a work of art.
The fact is that almost anything goes at the Derby, just don’t go “topless” so to speak. Remember that you must have three things at the Derby at all costs: a hat, a mint julep, and the time of your life. Enjoy!
