How strict is Derby Day dress code?

The dress code for men and women on Derby Day is Black and White – but you can get away with shades of grey. The official flower for Derby Day is the cornflower. This subtle purple-blue flower pairs perfectly with the monochrome palette for Derby Day. So you can always pop one in your pocket or pin one to your lapel.

What is the acceptable dress code for the Kentucky Derby?

Vests, shirts with collars, sweaters, dresses, pantsuits, dress jeans, dress shorts and slacks are appropriate. Don'ts: Cargo shorts, t-shirts, crop or midriff tops, athletic wear, swim wear, frayed or torn denim or shorts, and tennis shoes are considered inappropriate attire.

Can you wear a short dress to Derby Day?

Wear a super short mini dress, avoid unnecessary flashing. Overdo it with the makeup, keep your look fresh-faced for a more youthful look.

Do you have to wear black on Derby Day?

Is this really true? The answer is, yes! Derby Day is known for its strict black and white dress code, so the outfit you choose must follow this rule. Although this is the dress code for men and women, you can get away with subtle shades of grey.

Can ladies wear pants to Derby Day?

Duchess's Grandstand. Racegoers here are encouraged to dress smart. Gentlemen can wear denim and a jacket but should steer clear of ripped or torn jeans, while ladies can wear light summer or flowy dresses. However, you should still avoid wearing T-shirts, ripped jeans and sportswear.

Derby Day Fashion For Men - What To Wear In 2018

Can you wear grey to Derby Day?

One way of doing so is opting for a suit with a subtle pattern, like a stripe or check. While that's a little tricky to do with a plain black suit, no one said you can't wear grey, charcoal or white at coming Derby Day. Go for a single or double-breasted jacket with matching trousers.

Can ladies wear jeans to the races?

Wear whatever makes you comfortable. During the regular work week, most people at the races have on jeans and t-shirts. If you're going on a big race day and don't want to dress up, stick with a comfortable pair of pants and polo shirt.

What are the fashion rules for Derby Day?

The dress code for men and women on Derby Day is Black and White – but you can get away with shades of grey. The official flower for Derby Day is the cornflower. This subtle purple-blue flower pairs perfectly with the monochrome palette for Derby Day.

What color to wear on Derby Day?

"Black and white or navy and white are traditional spectator color combinations at the race track," said Ross. "They are always in style." If you want to "Derby up" a black and white or navy and white theme, it's a great idea to add a splash of color in your hat and handbag.

Can you wear pink to the Derby?

Do I have to wear specific colors to either one? Not at all. The Kentucky Derby is a chance for guests to express themselves through fashion, and you will see every shade and hue and lots more represented!

Can you wear maxi dress to a Derby?

Your dress does not have to be a certain length, but a safe rule to go by is keep it either just above the knee or mid-calf. Maxi dresses either come off as too formal or too casual and anything shorter than two inches above the knee looks like you never changed after the night before.

Can you wear a cut out dress to the races?

Wear anything casual like denim, sportswear, untailored pants and jackets, leggings, sneakers or thongs (shoes that go between the first two toes). Show too much skin – bare midriffs (including cut-outs) are a no-no, as are strapless dresses or spaghetti straps in members' areas.

Can you wear a jumpsuit to Derby party?

Jumpsuits, pant suits, dressy shorts with a blouse - any of those options (and more) are acceptable at the track the week of Derby.

What is smart casual dress code?

Smart casual includes items like blazers, sports jackets, dresses, sweaters, trousers, khakis, skirts, blouses, button-down shirts, polos, dress shoes, boots, heels, flats, scarves and jewelry.

Is it OK to wear a black dress to the Kentucky Derby?

Wear Black

The dress has a modern, stylish silhouette, making it more playful, rather than formal. And the floppy hat tones it down for the daytime occasion, as well.

Can you dress casual at the Kentucky Derby?

Casual Attire is permitted in the Turf Club, Trophy Room, and Millionaires Row, as well as in all other seating areas including the Grand Stand, which means: Jackets optional, blazers. Vests, collared shirts and sweaters. Dresses, pantsuits.

Why do people wear black and white on Derby Day?

It is also believed Derby Day attire was inspired by Audrey Hepburn in "My Fair Lady". The black and white dress code was immortalised in the film during the Ascot scene.

Why do people dress crazy for Kentucky Derby?

According to the Kentucky Derby's website, the extravagant hat tradition began with Col. Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., who instituted a “full morning dress” code for the race to mimic the high-class standards of European races.

What not to wear on a race day?

Trainers and shorts are widely regarded as unacceptable, although not forbidden in some enclosures or at some meetings. The classic Flat racing attire for men is a collared shirt with trousers and smart shoes.

Can curvy girls wear white jeans?

We curvy girls need to remember that whether it's black or white or pink or any other color, a monochromatic look is flattering. Curvy women can wear white skinny jeans if we remember our fit rules. As long as we keep with styles and cuts that flatter us and make us feel good, we'll look good too.

Can I wear flat shoes to the races?

You will be on your feet all day, so wear shoes you can handle and feel comfortable in. . Sneaky flats are always a good idea: don't walk around barefoot at the end of the day. Instead, pack a cute pair of flats that you can easily slip on if or when the heels become too much.

Can I wear a maxi dress to the races?

Hitting anywhere between below the knee and the calf, a midi dress is long enough to provide a modest and formal feel, while avoiding a restrictive feel. As a rule for horse race outfits for ladies, we tend to avoid maxi styles which can get in the way of networking at the grandstand or clubhouse.

Can you wear cowboy boots to a Derby party?

DON'T wear excessively tight, short or shiny pants; they are not appropriate. DON'T wear cowboy boots even if they are bright and 'cute'.

Can you wear a strapless dress to Kentucky Derby?

The Kentucky Derby is considered a semi-formal southern event. For a Kentucky Derby party, ladies should wear brightly colored springtime dresses that are not too short or overly clingy. Sleeveless, strapless, or short-sleeved knee-length dresses with full skirts are the most popular.

Can I wear a jumpsuit instead of a cocktail dress?

For a summer wedding with cocktail attire, opt for light and airy fabrics such as chiffon, linen, or organza. A floral maxi dress, a pastel midi or knee-length dress, as well as a jumpsuit, are all great options.