Derby Hats and Their History 

The Kentucky Derby is just as much about the fashion as the race, itself.  Every spring since 1875 Churchill Downs floods with society's most fashionable spectators to watch the Run for the Roses.  There are many traditions associated with the Derby's long history such as mint juleps, the roses awarded to the winning horse and the playing of "My Old Kentucky Home" though none are as fun and unique as the hats that are on display each year in May at Churchill Downs. 

The tradition of the Kentucky Derby hat began at the inception of the race.  The founder, Colonel Meriweather Lewis Clark, Jr. wanted to ensure a "respectable" crowd at his event and to emulate British racing's high-fashion and formal dress.

  Originally, the Derby hats were modest, but they evolved into large, extravagant and a colorful display of "social peacocking" in the 1960s, driven by television coverage and the desire to stand out!

In the early 20th century the hats were heavily influenced by Southern charm and the fashion of the day, with society women wearing large, elaborate hats with feathers, bows flowers and ribbons as a sign of status.

The 1960s television shift made people wish to be seen.  The style shifted from simple, elegant hats to larger, more daring designs to gain attention on camera. Today, "going big" is part of the tradition, with many wearing custom-made, over-the-top creations and "fascinators" which are small headpieces on a clip or headband.

Symbolism and evolution holds that a larger hat brings better racing odds which contributes to the oversized, dramatic styles worn today and a bit of racing good luck thrown in. 

The event is often described as a "fashionable carnival" where women can express their personal style and creativity with hats in many colors and personal flair.

While traditional wide-brimmed hats are still popular, fascinators have become increasingly common, particularly among those who prefer a more modern or British-inspired look. 

The traditon of the hats lives on as a fun element to the races and more practically to keep the sun out of spectator's eyes.  

Placing a Bet?

Sidenote:  Wearing green hats at the Kentucky Derby is considered bad luck as it is traditionally believed to bring misfortune to gamblers, owners and jockeys on race day.  Despite not being a strict rule, many attendees avoid the color, green.  Many prefer to wear red to honor the "Run for the Roses" nickname. Pink is specifically encouraged for Kentucky Oaks Day which takes place the day prior to the "Run for the Roses". 

Carrying a $50 bill is also considered bad luck for those betting on the races.