For a classic Derby hat, you’re going to want to find one with a large brim. The more brim, the more you can decorate it — and a Derby hat is nothing if not overdone. Alternately, you could opt for a fascinator, but that style is typically worn on Oaks Day, which is the day before Derby.
What makes a hat a Derby hat?
The bowler hat, also known as a billycock, bob hat, bombín (Spanish) or derby (United States), is a hard felt hat with a rounded crown, originally created by the London hat-makers Thomas and William Bowler in 1849. It has traditionally been worn with semi-formal and informal attire.
What kind of hat do you wear to a Derby?
The most important thing you need to know is that they should be worn sockless. Top it all off with a fedora or bowler hat for the complete Kentucky Derby look. Men’s Derby hats are generally solid in color and inspired by the style from the 1920s.
Why do people wear derby hats?
It’s a tradition that dates back to when the Kentucky Derby first started in 1875, stylist and creative director of YRB magazine Darius Baptist told ABC News. “When women got dressed up, especially when they were going to church and formal events, the woman’s crowning glory was the hat,” he explained.
Why are Kentucky Derby hats so big?
The extravagant hats that have become associated with the Kentucky Derby did not really come around until the 1960s, when social fashion norms loosened up and the presence of television gave women a reason to stand out. The hats became larger, brighter, and more extravagant.
What’s the difference between a fedora and a derby hat?
A bowler or derby hat has a round crown with no indentation, and a narrow brim curled on the side. A fedora has a tear-drop shaped crown, low sitting, and a slightly wider, flat brim. Fedoras can have a deep crease down the center of the crown and dramatically pinched sides giving it a much sharper look.
What is the difference between a derby hat and a fascinator?
The key differences between a fascinator and a hat are that fascinators only cover a part of the head and can be worn on the side of the head. Whereas hats cover the entirety of the head with a large brim. What is this? A fascinator cannot stand on the wearer’s head by itself like a hat.
Can you wear a fedora to the Derby?
The Derby is known for women’s extravagant hats but that doesn’t mean you can’t complete your look with a hat of your own. A fedora, bowler, or any other dress hat will give that classic, old-fashioned gentlemen look that the Kentucky Derby is known for.
What is the difference between a Derby and a bowler hat?
What is the Difference Between the Bowler Hat and Derby hat? It’s a good question with a simple answer: absolutely nothing, besides the name. Bowlers and derbies are actually the same hat, the only difference is “Bowler Hat” is the British name and “Derby Hat” is the American name.
When did derby hats go out of style?
1970s
British men were still wearing the bowler hat for high-level business deals into the 1970s. But, after that point, it truly did fall out of fashion.
What is a women’s derby hat called?
“If you’re headed to Louisville, a fascinator is easier to travel with. It fits neatly into a smaller box, and some are even packable.” But whether you choose to crown your Derby look with a wide-brimmed hat or a feathery fascinator, you’ll be sure to turn heads in style.
What does derby style mean?
A derby (UK: /ˈdɑːrbi/ ( listen) DAR-bee, US: /ˈdɜːrbi/ DUR-bee; also called gibson) is a style of boot or shoe characterized by quarters, with shoelace eyelets that are sewn on top of the vamp. This construction method, also known as “open lacing”, contrasts with that of the Oxford shoe.
Should your Derby hat match your dress?
The most important characteristic of a Kentucky Derby hat is originality. Don’t be afraid to show off your personality with your hat! Let your hat be the star of the show by pairing it with a simple dress – and of course, make it sure matches. At HOM we always say, pick a dress to match your hat!
Why are derby hats so expensive?
The most expensive hats at the Kentucky Derby are usually created months in advance, elaborately crafted by expert milliners around the country, and sold at a premium to the most elite Derby attendees.
What is the average cost of a hat for the Kentucky Derby?
The price of a Kentucky Derby Hat can vary widely. Since the hats are a fashion statement, spectators are willing to spend hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars for one. While Derby goers can find hats online for less than $100, the typical Derby hat will cost a few hundred dollars.
How expensive are Kentucky Derby hats?
How Much does a Kentucky Derby Hat Cost? The average hat for the event is between $300 and $500, which is not cheap for something that is all style and no substance.
What hat did Winston Churchill wear?
Homburg hat
Though various figures wore the Homburg hat in public throughout the early and mid-20th century, it is perhaps most closely associated with Winston Churchill.
What color hat is most flattering?
Because a hat is worn so closely to your face it is important that the colour of the hat flatters your skin tone. If you have pale skin, a warm colour such as pink or rust is a good choice. Darker skin is easier to choose for, although if it is very dark, black is best avoided.
When did derby hats become popular?
origin of style
…it and known as a derby in the United States, was introduced in 1850. Cloth caps with visors became standard attire for workingmen and boys. During the last quarter of the century, the soft felt hat became popular in the United States.
Do you have to wear a hat to a Derby party?
No Derby outfit is complete without a hat. While wide-brimmed hats are the most popular style, there’s really no limit to how creative your headwear can get. In fact, wearing a hat to the Derby is reportedly good luck, according to the Derby itself.
Can you wear fascinator to Derby?
If you choose a hat for Derby Race Day, you can wear a 5-6” brim no problem. The favored look is a wide brim with a flower. If you are concerned about looking appropriate, wear a fascinator that feels comfortable in size, and is not too large.