A friend just invited us to join her family for a day of tailgating/watching horse races and noted that people dress up, wear hats, etc. I have never been to an event like this and have no idea where to start. I assume some sort of bright or floral dress -- but how does one find a hat or fascinator that matches with that ... and jewelry that looks good with the hat!? I'd love some suggestions for outfits that might look good. I'll add that I'm overweight (5'5" and 150 lbs) so rarely feel like I look good. :/ |
This will be perfect-
https://www.amazon.com/CreepyParty-Novelty-Halloween-Costume-Party/dp/B0107XRQ7E/ |
Derby Day? Start by watching My Fair Lady, it'll give you an idea of how it all started across the pond...
You've got the right idea. Refinement and large hats will be the name of the day. You can even wear short gloves. Heels, despite the terrain. |
Gold Cup?
In my experience, yes to a dress but hats are very much optional. |
Is it the Derby? Will you be in a box, or on the infield? Or is it a steeplechase? |
If its Gold Cup - look at the pics on this blog to see what people have worn in the past. Some wear hats, some wear sundresses, or derby style outfits. It all depends on the weather. Some years its 70 and others its 50 and damp.
https://www.sweetsauceblog.com/horse-races/ |
OP here. Steeplechase, in Delaware. |
If it’s the va gold cup, wear comfortable shoes and I would wear shorts for comfort/chafing personally. You don’t have to have a hat.
If you have time, the Smithsonian craft show at the building museum starts May 1 and in the past they have had fun hat vendors. |
Shoes for grass! Dress for walking. |
Flats, skirt, top and hat. Done. Don't overthink this, OP. We are figured out what to do for the Triple Crown WAY before the internet. You got this. It is a long, hot day, so you want to be comfortable. |
Are you high? If OP styles herself on Eliza Doolittle at the races she's going to look like a lunatic, or a costumed performer hired by the track for fun. |
Don’t wear heels, you will die. |
Steeplechase is the even more redneck version of the Kentucky Derby. Accessorize with Modelo and you'll be fine. |
For any steeplechase, you need to think carefully about shoes. Put a pair of boots (like Hunter) in the car in case you get there and it is muddy. You are out in a field with very uneven terrain so you need something sturdy even when dry. Take layers for changing weather. If you are more comfortable in pants, do pants with a dressy top, pretty sun hat, and fancy scarf. |
Definitely flats, boots or wedges. Grass can be muddy and dirty too so don’t wear very light pastel or white. |