What is the dress code for Derby Festival?

You must wear formal day dress or a tailored trouser suit, with a hat or fascinator. This dress code applies to both Queen Elizabeth II Stand ticket holders and Queen Elizabeth II Stand Hospitality guests.

What is considered Derby attire?

Slacks and a button-down shirt with tie is acceptable attire. Show your Derby spirit and break out some vibrant spring colors. Backyard Party Relax and be comfortable. Jeans and even shorts are appropriate for a more informal affair.

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.

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.

Can you wear jeans to a Kentucky Derby party?

There are all kinds of fun pants for instance, black with big yellow flowers or high-waisted with big full legs, fitted pants suits and jumpsuits," Ross said. "But absolutely do not wear your favorite skinny jeans or leggings, no matter how comfortable — they are not appropriate for the Kentucky Derby."

What to Wear to the Kentucky 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.

Can a woman wear pants to a Kentucky Derby party?

There are only two options for women when attending the Kentucky Derby: dresses and pantsuits in sophisticated silhouettes. Preferred colors in your effort to be a Southern Belle for a day are pastels in solid colors if you're not daring or select a dress that is full of color, floral or with a horse pattern.

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.

Do you wear black and white to Derby Day?

So there's all the talk around about how you can only wear black and white to 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.

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.

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 a normal person go to the Kentucky Derby?

Seating Chart

General Admission tickets to the Kentucky Derby and Oaks include an Oaks/Derby program and access to the infield, where you can bring your own chair or picnic blanket and watch the races from the world's largest 4K video board.

Do people dress up for the Kentucky Derby?

The Kentucky Derby is a fashion spectacle. You'll see women in everything from spring dresses to fitted suits. It does vary by where you're sitting, so take a look at your ticket and be sure the outfit you're choosing will be appropriate. (i.e., you'll regret stiletto heels in the infield — or anywhere, really.

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.

What do guys wear to Derby party?

Of course, no man's Kentucky Derby outfit is complete without a tie. Most men sport neckties, but bow ties are also hugely popular. As for shoes, Oxfords with pastel socks are a great choice. However, if you want to go sockless, slip on some stylish loafers.

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 I wear a black dress to the races?

Getting dressed up for the races is fun and your outfit should reflect that. Therefore, consider choosing a bright or floral colored dress that you usually wouldn't have chosen. Black is chic, but for the races, you can play around with pinks and bold blues.

Can you wear any color in a black and white event?

Don't wear any color other than black or white. This includes handbags, shoes, and jewelry. You should stick to the classic diamond and pearl jewelry that are perfect for a black and white event.

What colors to wear for Derby?

Pick bold, bright colors for your Kentucky Derby outfit

Spectator color combinations are always classic at a horse race. Black and white or navy and white never go out of style — and don't forget a splash of color in your shoes, purse or accessories. It's the Derby, after all.

What do men wear to Kentucky Derby dress?

Suit & Tie

Per tradition, men typically sport a suit and tie to the Kentucky Derby, yet there's a fashionable twist. The Kentucky Derby recommends that gentlemen wear a blazer or sport coat, a dress shirt, stylish pants, and a tie.

What is casual wear for horse racing?

Casual looks include smart jeans, chinos and smart pants for men – you can also wear smart, clean trainers at many courses. For ladies, similar smart trousers and jeans are also popular with, jumpers or shirts depending on the weather. Practical footwear is again permitted with hats not necessary.

Can you wear polka dots to Derby?

A fun and bold plus size Kentucky Derby outfit idea from Louisville fashion blogger Authentically Emmie. Red and polka dots are a fun option for race day.

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'.

Are sneakers smart casual?

Yes, you can wear sneakers as part of a smart-casual dress code for women, men and gender-neutral styles. You can pair sneakers with jeans, khakis and chinos. You may even wear sneakers with some skirts for a more athletic smart-casual look for women.

Can I wear jeans if the dress code is smart casual?

Can you wear jeans in smart casual? Generally, jeans are acceptable for smart casual dress codes, but you'll want to stick with a darker wash, without any rips or distressing. If you're worried about being underdressed in denim, try a pair of chinos instead.