About Kentucky Derby Hats

Aside from horse racing, there are two things that the Kentucky Derby is famous for: Kentucky Derby hats and mint juleps. These three things go together like America, apple pie and baseball. The Kentucky Derby has been often referred to as the "fastest two minutes in sports," as well as "the run for the roses." Women who attend the Kentucky Derby are more than happy to put on their best--oftentimes gaudiest--hat and strut their stuff in front of all the Derby onlookers.

History

The Kentucky Derby, itself, is is a thoroughbred horse race held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on the first Saturday in May. This annual horse racing tradition dates back to 1783 and is rich in pride and heritage. Wearing a hat to the Kentucky Derby dates back to 1875. The tradition carried over from the United Kingdom's Royal Ascot.

Significance

In the world famous Royal Ascot, guests were required to wear hats in the royal enclosure, complying with a very strict dress code. Men were required to wear top hats and full morning dress, while ladies were required to wear hats and were not to show their shoulders or midriffs. Before long, the dress code had carried over to major United States racetracks. However, the code was not as strict as that of the Royal Ascot and those who attended Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby have enjoyed wearing hats in accordance with the code.

Attendees

Typically, anyone who loves watching horse racing and can afford the tickets will attend the Derby. Members of the royal family and Hollywood celebrities have all attended the annual event, however, and party goers who have paid general admission also enjoy the festivities. Regardless of social status, both men and women will put on their craziest hats and finest clothes to attend the race.

Significance

Though wearing a hat on Derby day is a tradition, oftentimes people wonder if it's a requirement. In keeping with the dress code of the Royal Ascot, you should follow the rules set forth by the traditions of the Kentucky Derby if you expect to blend into the crowd. There are three different sections at the derby: the clubhouse, millionaire's row and the infield. Women who are sitting in either the clubhouse or millionaire's row are expected to wear pastel-colored dresses and hats with a spring theme. In the infield, however, it's a more relaxed atmosphere and while the same rules should apply, people in this area tend to wear crazy, gaudy hats and not dress as sophisticated.

Considerations

While you won't be thrown out of the Derby for not wearing a hat, you may want to consider adhering to the dress code so you don't stick out like a sore thumb. If you are not sitting in the clubhouse or millionaire's row, then you can wear a silly, tacky hat and get away with it. However, if you will be sitting in the aforementioned two sections, then sticking out like a sore thumb probably isn't appropriate.