Whether you think Kentucky Derby hats are silly or not, you have to admit that the tradition is one of the most unique of worldwide sporting events. Wearing a hat to the derby has a history and long run tradition with derby goers. The Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks are such a unique event, different from any sporting event out there. Why? Well, most importantly, because of the crazy Kentucky Derby Hats!
At Churchill Downs in Louisville Kentucky, there are no rules when it comes to choosing your derby hat. After all, the hats really are what make this event the greatest two minutes in sports.
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Why Do We Wear a Hat to the Kentucky Derby?
Back in the day, the sport of horse racing was always known as expensive, and an event attended by the upper class. Due to this social status, females started wearing extremely extravagant hats to not only weddings, galas, and parties, but also to the Kentucky Derby. It was a definition of wealth, and during those times meant that they were setting themselves apart from everyone else.
Today, the reason is more so for the fact that wearing a hat to the Kentucky Derby is said to be good luck! The fashion tradition was started by women, but has also taken the mens derby fashion scene by storm in the most recent years.
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How Do I Choose My Kentucky Derby Hat?
Choosing a hat is like choosing a persona. Who you actually want to be or look like come derby weekend? For the most part, females tend to wear southern belle inspired hats that are wide-brimmed. Hats are typically decorated and personalized to ones liking. Hat decorations include bows, flowers, crystals, feathers, and ribbon.
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Examples of Some of the Craziest Kentucky Derby Hats
Just for fun, we’ve scoured the internet for some of the craziest Kentucky Derby Hats from previous years. Luckily, at Churchill Downs, the tradition continues yearly, and the hats seem to be getting better and better!
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