The tradition of the Kentucky Derby hat began at the inception of the race; the founder Col. Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. wanted to ensure a good crowd at his event. At the time the race track had a reputation as immoral and dangerous so Clark looked to other successful races for inspiration.
Where did derby hats originate?
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.
Who started the Kentucky Derby hats?
Col. Meriwether Clark Jr.
The idea of the hat has been around since the beginning of the Kentucky Derby, with Col. Meriwether Clark Jr.‘s decision to model the races after British horseracing whom had a strict dress code for both men and women, including hats.
When did they start wearing hats at the Kentucky Derby?
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.
Why do people wear hats at the derby?
Wearing a hat to the Kentucky Derby is believed to bear good luck! The long-established fashion was started by the women, however, over the last few years, many men have taken part in the tradition as well.
Who is famous for making Kentucky Derby hats?
Ahead of the Kentucky Derby race, milliners in Louisville, where the storied event is held, are scrambling to finish hats for attendees to wear as they watch horses and jockeys compete on the track on Saturday. Not only is Christine Moore one of them but she is also Kentucky Derby’s featured milliner.
What are Ladies Kentucky Derby hats 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.
Can a woman wear pants to the Kentucky Derby?
Choose spring dresses for your Kentucky Derby outfit
But keep in mind, there’s no rule that says you have to wear a dress, though most women do. “Some women are more comfortable in pants and that is fine, too.
What are the small derby hats called?
Now to the question of the headwear called a fascinator. Smaller than a traditional hat but equally as stylish, this little number perches perfectly on your head and won’t give you the dreaded hat hair!
What are five Derby traditions?
Derby Traditions
- Garland of Roses.
- The Twin Spires.
- “My Old Kentucky Home”
- Kentucky Oaks.
- Mint Julep.
- Hats.
- Celebrities.
- Trophy & Winner’s Circle.
What is the most expensive derby hat?
The most expensive of hats seen at the Derby
The hat and dress are both by designer Jack Loder. Notably, Peck’s hat was made of 1,264 diamonds. Moreover, it is set with a 37.53-carat beryl jewel. The one-of-a-kind hat looked like a crown sitting on top of Peck’s head.
How much does the average Kentucky Derby hat cost?
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. Hat designers that are officially featured by the Kentucky Derby will vary in price.
How much does a derby hat cost?
If you are new to Louisville or the Kentucky Derby, hat prices may surprise you. While many are in the $250-$600 range, some custom designs run over $1,000, which makes the Kentucky Derby Museum’s hat sale a popular option.
Why are derby hats so big?
Of the Derby hat tradition, Pfanenstiel noted that hats were considered to be a sign of good luck. “So people thought the bigger the hat, the bigger the luck,” she said. “So that’s where the big brims came into play, and it just stuck.”
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!
What is a jockey hat called?
Also know as a peakless hat, crash hat, cross country hat or riding school hat, the jockey skull cap is designed to protect your head in the event of a fall.
Can you wear blue jeans to the Kentucky Derby?
Jackets preferred, blazers, vests, shirts with collars, sweaters, dresses, pantsuits and slacks and capri pants are appropriate. Jeans/denim, shorts, t-shirts, halter tops, athletic wear and tennis shoes are not permitted in these areas.
Can you wear black to Derby Day?
What Colour Bag with a Black Dress? Because the dress code for Derby Day is strictly black and white, there can be no colour in the mix, even for accessories. This means that you may want to choose contrasting accessories with your look or stick with the same block colour.
Can you wear grey to 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. So you can always pop one in your pocket or pin one to your lapel.
Can I wear a fascinator to Kentucky 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.
What is the difference between a bowler hat and a derby hat?
We’re not certain there’s any difference at all. From what we’ve seen, the terms have always been used interchangeably. Having said that, across the pond in much of Europe, the term “bowler” seems to be common, whereas here in the US, we tend to hear derby more frequently.