It’s that time….just a few weeks before the most famous two minutes in sports…the Kentucky Derby.
Whether you are attending the Derby, a Derby party or just want to dress up….here a few ideas.
Go Big. The Derby has been about big hats ever since the beginning. Nothing says Kentucky Derby like a large, dramatic hat. Add pink for a feminine touch, especially if attending the Kentucky Oaks. As they say in Kentucky “Go big or go home!”
Hat Pros:
Better sun coverage for a long day at the races.
Elegant.
Timeless.
Not a fan of big hats or worried about fit?
Then try a smaller hat. The smaller hats can be worn to other events such as teas, weddings and parties.
You see here how a regular size hat can pack a powerful punch. Leaving off the feathers (like I did with this hat), give it more mileage for future events.
This is the Balmoral, a soft dreamy hat. The pale pink silk rose and veiling are simple, yet elegant. Remember, a timeless and elegant hat is not overdone. Elegant simplicity is the way to go.
Feeling like a hat is too much for you?
Then try a fascinator.
Fascinator Pros:
Smaller, but fun and dramatic
Add height to the wearer
Look great with short hair and long hair too
Fascinators are SO easy to wear. They are worn on a headband. The colors on this fascinator, the Royal Jubilee, are bright and work well with a navy, pink, royal blue, red and even a yellow outfit. This Vincent Camuto dress is perfect choice.
The Honey, pictured above, really catches the eye with the royal blue feathers and yellow/white base. This hat is made from a sinamay fabric from a pattern that Polly designed.
Polly’s first halo is the Alice Louise. Our clients have really enjoyed this modern, yet vintage style piece.
Polly’s fashion tips:
- Keep it simple. Pick your hat as soon as possible. If you have the hat first, take it to a brick and mortar store. They will help you pair your dream hat with a fabulous outfit.
- Hop over to your favorite boutique and have them do the hard work. Try to avoid ordering clothing online. Yes, this might sound off coming from an online retailer, but with fit being an increasing problem (each designer’s clothing fits differently and fabric quality can be all over the place), it is so much easier to hop on over to a local boutique. I hate having to send clothing back.
- Have 2 outfits. Why? Depending on the weather, you will want choices. As I write this, it is 52 degrees on April 24th. When I attended the Derby, it was so cold that I had THREE layers of clothing on in an attempt to stay warm.
- Avoid high stiletto heels and go for wedges or platform shoes. The walking surfaces at Churchill are often uneven and expensive shoes can get torn up.
- People forget that Derby Day is a long day. While the race is 2 minutes, the day is long. Bring a wrap and perhaps flats to change into as you walk to your car or bus.
- Photograph yourself in your ensemble, meaning hat, dress, shoes, bag, jewelry, etc. I have often fallen in love with a certain outfit for a big event, only to not have it look that great in pictures. The pictures will tell you how it REALLY looks.
Have fun!