The Kentucky Derby is known not only for its beautiful, lightning-fast horses, but also for its extravagant, over-the-top hats. The ideal Kentucky Derby hat needs to protect the face from the warm Kentucky sun, so a 50+ UPF rating and a wide brim is ideal. It should also be glamorous, stylish, and most importantly – fun! SolEscapes has an excellent selection of sun protective Kentucky Derby hats.

Founded in 1875, the Kentucky Derby has always been a place to see and be seen, with fashionable attire at high priority. Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. (grandson of William Clark of the Lewis & Clark) originated the idea of a fancy racetrack after witnessing high-class European horseracing events. Until then, U.S. racetracks had a lowly, tawdry reputation, one ripe with opportunity in Clarks’ eyes. Encouraging attendance by upper-class ladies and gentlemen established the Kentucky Derby as not only a major racing event, but also a high-stakes social occasion.

Clothing Trends at early Derbies mirrored those of fashion at large. Dresses were long and bustled, gloves were a must, and hats were an absolute necessity. As it was an important society event – on par with a ball – the finest clothing was worn. This trend continued through the middle of the 20th century: even as styles started relaxing, the Derby was still an occasion to don formal gowns and coordinating hats.

Wearing hats in general had been obligatory; any lady knew it was immodest to leave the house with a bare head. After World War II, a major shift began and hats became optional. Indeed by the 1960’s, wearing hats was unusual and quite out of style. The Kentucky Derby, however, held fast to tradition, and hats remained an integral part of the dress code. In fact, as the decades progressed, Derby hats have become fancier, bigger and more extravagant.

Nowadays, hats loom large at the Derby. Though pretty dresses are still customary, they are positively outshone by the hats. Most hats have a large brim, making them functional in providing shade from the sun. Outside of that little practicality however, Kentucky Derby hats are all about extravagance. Most are “Southern Belle” inspired, fancily adorned with feathers, flowers, ribbons, and the like. Some are downright outrageous, with huge brims, towering crowns and overflowing embellishments. Preparation for the Kentucky Derby now lies somewhere between dressing up and playing dress-up, resulting in an fun Springtime tradition that we eagerly anticipate each year.

Kentucky Derby Hats offering excellent sun protection and high style at SolEscapes.

Sources: KentuckyDerby.com, Kentucky Derby Museum