Derby Experience

Derby Attire

Dress to Impress

One of the truly unique characteristics of the Kentucky Derby, and its sister event, the Kentucky Oaks, is that they are sports parties that showcase the finest in spring fashions. Both female and male attendees pull out all of the stops when selecting their Kentucky Derby and Oaks apparel.There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to Derby dressing in part because what you wear has much to do with where you plan to spend the day. In the reserved seating areas (grandstand, clubhouse, suites and corporate hospitality areas), ladies typically wear pastel-colored suits, frilly dresses or bold separates that coordinate with their Derby headwear and accessories. 

While high heels are certainly part of the total Derby ensemble, experienced Derby divas also pack a pair of fashionable yet comfortable flats or flip flops to wear home. Who says the high price of fashion has to include blisters?

Not to be out done by their dates, gentlemen leave their pinstripes at home and instead opt for seersucker suits, light-colored sport coats and the occasional madras plaid jacket. Guys, when in doubt, a navy sports coat with pressed khakis or dress slacks, a light-colored shirt and flashy tie (long or bow) is perfectly acceptable! 

The Kentucky Derby infield comes with its own agenda and dress code. Unbridled fun and frivolity is the focus of infield fans and with that attitude comes the need to be practical in all apparel choices. Infielders typically sport jeans or shorts, T-shirts, tanks or polo shirts, sneakers or comfortable sandals and other varieties of durable (and washable) attire. Some fans show up centerfield in more elaborate costumes, including fantastic get ups meant to draw attention. Whether you want to be noticed – or just blend into the crowd -- the key is comfort. Be sure to pack a rain jacket along with your cooler, chair, blanket or tarp. If it rains you’ll be glad you did (no umbrellas allowed!) And don’t forget the one thing ALL infielders should wear to the Derby regardless of the weather – a good layer of sunscreen!

  • Photo: Churchill Downs

  • vineyard vines is the Official Style of the Kentucky Derby.

  • Photo: Churchill Downs

  • Photo: Churchill Downs

  • Photo: Churchill Downs

  • Photo: Churchill Downs

  • Photo: Churchill Downs


vineyard vines
is the Official Style of the Kentucky Derby.