Derby Day

Spring is in full bloom, meaning that the Run for the Roses is just around the corner.  Whether you’re sipping a mint julep at Churchill Downs or throwing a fabulous party in your home town, you’ll want to wear your Derby Best for the greatest two minutes in sports.  Any fashionable woman will tell you that your outfit can often influence your mood and set the tone for your entire experience.  While some women can’t wait to channel their inner Southern Belle in pastel sundresses, others prefer a more reserved look.  What is your personal Kentucky Derby style?  Take our quiz and find out.

Find your Derby Day Style

1.  Who is your celebrity style icon?
a)  Audrey Hepburn – sophisticated and elegant
b)  Reese Witherspoon – Classic and Feminine
c)  Michelle Williams – Vintage and Romantic
d)  Victoria Beckham – Structured and Sexy

2.  What type of hat are you lusting after?

a)  Over the top – Bring on the feathers and flowers
b)  Classic – You can’t go wrong with a wide brimmed straw hat
c)  Delicate – Ladylike hats appear to just float on top of your head
d)  Modern – Only a fascinator will do

3.  What about color?

a)  Black & White – Remember the races at ascot in My Fair Lady?
b)  Pink & Green – True Prep all the way!
c)  White or Ivory – A light neutral will let the details shine.
d)  Pastel – It’s Spring.  Why not?

4.  How will your date be dressed?

a)  He’ll be in a classic grey suit – a gentlemen’s uniform.
b)  My beau rocks a bow tie.
c)  A sporting event requires a sports coat… in seersucker of course!
d)  He’ll probably layer a white jacket over a pastel shirt.  He likes to stand out as much as I do.

5.  Why do you enjoy the Derby?

a)  For social reasons – It’s one of the best events of the season.
b)  For the horses – I’ve loved riding ever since my first lesson in grade school.
c)  For the tradition – My family has gone for generations.
d)  For the spectacle – How could I miss an opportunity to wear such a fabulous hat?

Results

Mostly A’s – Traditional Prep

Others may go for loud colors and bold prints, but you prefer a more subtle, classic look.  A black and white look will never go out of style and can be worn again for a variety of events.  Plus, a simpler dress allows your accessories, particularly your hat, to shine.      

conservative derby by stayathomechic

For example, the Kate Spade Ribbon Mirabella dress ($476) is the perfect backdrop for fabulous Philip Treacy hat ($3,110) and Valentino bag ($795).  Finish the look with a statement shoe like these Kate Spade sandals ($295).



Mostly B’s – Southern Prep

It doesn’t matter what day the Kentucky Derby falls on this year.  For you, the real Run for the Roses begins weeks before the horses hit the gates.  Floral sundresses steal center stage at the Derby.

Classic Derby by stayathomechic

Lilly Pulitzer is the go-to designer for the flirty, feminine frock.  This spring’s Lottie dress ($198) screams “Derby!”  A straw hat from Marley Lilly ($30) will not compete with a bolder pattern, and the monogram adds the perfect preppy touch.  As everyone knows, a Southern girl would not be complete without a bow.  Kate Spade’s All Wrapped Up earrings ($48) tie the look together.



Mostly C’s – Vintage Prep

It wouldn’t be the Derby without someone paying homage to Kentucky’s most fabulous It Girl, Daisy Buchanan.  When working with the light, monochromatic palette favored by Mrs. Buchanan, adding texture is a must.  Look for feminine details such as lace, beading and feathers.

Daisy Derby by stayathomechic

The illusion neckline of this Alice + Olivia Darcy Lace Dress ($396) creates the etherial feeling that made Daisy famous.  A vintage inspired bag by Mary Frances adds the perfect touch of whimsey.  Top the look off (quite literally) with a delicate Philip Treacy hat ($1,435).


Mostly D’s – Glamorous Prep

In a sea of girly A-line dresses, you choose to be different and, dare we say, even a little bit sexy.  The trick to wearing a figure hugging style to a daytime event is to keep the fabric and color light.  

Glamorous Derby by stayathomechic 

Alice + Olivia captures this perfectly with their yellow off-the-shoulder dress ($396).  A wide brimmed hat can overwhelm a fitted silhouette.  Instead, opt for a fascinator like this Philip Treacy hat ($835).  Avoid looking too severe by adding a pop of pattern.  These to die for Manolo Blahnik pumps ($805) are the ideal accessory to complete the look.



In Conclusion
Discovering your personal style is a beautiful thing.  It allows you to relax and be comfortable in your own skin.  Carry yourself with the confidence of a woman who knows she looks good.  However you’re spending May 5th, do it in style.