Off to the Races
May is associated with a lot of old school style and occasions, from horse racing to garden parties. If you’re a fan of over-the-top and indulgent-yet-classic fashion, the Kentucky Derby is the event for you.
My favorite aspect of dressing for an event like the Kentucky Derby is the idea that your clothes are the backdrop — it’s how you choose to accessorize that matters. And by “accessorize,” sure, I’m talking about sunglasses and pearls… but what I’m really talking about is the hats.
Oh, the hats. From extravagant fascinators to subtle straw styles to high-fashion statement pieces, the hats seem to outshine even the horses. The choices are as varied as the personalities, so our best advice is to wear what you feel most comfortable in.
That being said, if you’ve been wanting to take a fashion risk, now is the time. Find out which hat style is perfect for you below. Are you the classic floppy or the high-fashion cool?
Verde Wide Brim by Helen Kaminski
The Classic Floppy
A simple floppy hat doesn’t really scream Kentucky Derby, but maybe you’re not the type to scream. I’m a fan of a classic floppy style for many reasons: they protect you from the sun, they’ll never go out of style, they’re breathable and they’re comfortable. They’re also a demure choice, great for the modest crowd.
Valentina Asymmetric Wide Brim Occasion Hat by Betmar
2. Ladylike Organza
Sheer hats are just the sweetest. There’s just something so feminine and so graceful about organza. I love these if you’re going for more of a Jackie O look — a polished aesthetic with everything in its place. Instead of making a statement, they tie your whole look together.
Le Chapeau Riviera Hat by Jacquemus
3. Modern Straws
Another style not necessarily associated with out-of-the-box derby dressing, straw hats are the unsung warm-weather heroes. Originally crafted for function rather than fashion, straw hats have been reinvented time after time. Personally, I’m a huge fan of this clean white colorway with unexpected fringe.
Straw Hat by Missoni Mare
4. High-Fashion Cool
If you tend to follow the runway, let your favorite designers be your guide. I’m a huge fan of wild, high-fashion design, of investment pieces that make a huge statement every time you wear them. Unlike the fascinator, a hat like this beauty from Missoni Mare — with its classic silhouette and intricate color pattern — will last you a long time.
Odette Widebrim Occassion Hat by Betmar
5. Retro + Funky
If the Royals are people that you follow day in and day out, and you’d like to channel a little class, even if you’re knee deep in the mud, the Odette Widebrim Occassion Hat by Betmer is perfect for you.
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