What to wear to the Kentucky Derby
One of the most common questions Derby goers ask is "What should I wear?" There are two simple answers for this question and the second one requires more elaboration but the net net is that it all depends on your location. If you are going to the non-reserved Infield then I offer simple answer number one - you can wear anything you want. This area is filled with party revelers so there is wide latitude on apparel and appearance - both of which generally decline (for many) throughout the day. For reserved tents in the Infield dressy casual works.
If you are sitting anywhere else whether it's the Grandstand, Clubhouse, Turf Club or Millionaires Row I offer simple answer number two - get dressed up. Whether you're a muckety-muck or a down-on-your-luck, casual will just not do. To elaborate on 'get dressed up' I will say first that the Grandstand is less dressy than the Clubhouse but the vast majority of all non-infield patrons will be dressed fairly well, meaning no jeans, cutoffs or t-shirts. When it comes to the Clubhouse and above (both figuratively and literally) men will very simply feel out of place unless they have on nice slacks and a button down shirt and women a nice dress and ...a hat. Most of the men in the clubhouse areas will be wearing a jacket also but there are a few areas such as the Turf Club and Millionaires Row where a sports coat is required but nowhere will a necktie be required. Having said that, it's never a bad move to put on your best silk tie - especially if it's lucky! So guys, wrapping up your pack list - if you have linen or seersucker or a Panama hat - plan to wear it.
I'm somewhat handicapped on advice for the ladies - so I will simply leave it at go all out. Hats of all kinds - simple, exotic, colorful and crazy - will be seen here. Do what feels right but most ladies do wear them. If you prefer to be the spectator, then do something understated. If you prefer to be a spectacle, you've just entered yourself into a Derby of a different sort. It's hard to standout in this crowded field but there is always a clear Win, Place and Show. My wife tells me it's never bad to offer shopping tips so ladies, should you somehow show up without a hat, check out the emergency hat store at the Galt House. Good Luck!
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