The Kentucky Derby is just around the corner, and what is more fun than a Kentucky Derby party? Even though I’ve never been to the Kentucky Derby, and about all I know of it is what I’ve seen in movies and on TV (Pretty Woman, anyone??), any reason to get dressed up and buy a fancy hat is a party I can get behind!
A couple years ago, I was invited to attend a Kentucky Derby party at a blogging conference. After I got over my initial excitement, my next move was to figure out what to wear.
I knew a hat was a must, so I started there. I ordered this little fascinator on Amazon.com. It was perfect because it folded up nice and small and fit right into my suitcase, and it was fairly inexpensive. (Shop all Kentucky Derby Hats on Amazon.com. Nordstrom has a large selection as well.)
I didn’t have a dress that I felt was a great fit for the occasion, so I decided to go shopping. You will see everything from strapless sundresses to formal day suits at Churchill Downs. I gravitate to a sheath or shift dress, but for this occasion, I wanted something with a little bit of a fuller skirt. I found this flirty dress at White House Black Market.
Posing there with me is the fabulous Romy of Romy Raves. You can see, she was having fun with the occasion as well! And of course, I’m drinking a mint julep, the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. (If you want the perfect Mint Julep recipe, I have that too!)
But I digress. Let’s get back to Kentucky Derby dresses!
This floral fit and flare midi dress would be perfect.
Or what about this Stripe Skirt Cotton Sateen Fit and Flare number?
I also love this blue stripe flare dress at Ann Taylor for a Kentucky Derby party.
Any of the above would be adorable with a white hat.
Kohl’s has this cute black and white jacquard print dress. This would be gorgeous with a black fascinator like the one I wore.
As would this floral chiffon dress.
For shoes, nude pumps or strappy sandals in white or a coordinating color are perfect. This is a great time to perfect your sunless tanning skills. Or, if you’re not comfortable in bare legs, try a nude fishnet for something modern — but be careful if your shoes have an open toe. To be safe, stick with traditional pumps if you’re going to wear hoes.
Who’s going to a Kentucky Derby party? Anyone? I’d love to see what you’re going to wear!
For more fashion inspiration for women over 40, check out all of my Fashion posts. Or better yet, sign up to be emailed my weekly fashion & beauty digest with a recap of the week’s fashion & beauty posts.
How fun I have never been to a Derby party but I love the hats!! That pink striped dress is super cute, great suggestions.
My mom & I celebrate the Kentucky Derby every year, even if we are not together. We put together a platter of seafood appetizers, a special wine, and of course an over the top hat to wear! This year I may actually place a small bet for fun, but for me its all about the beautiful powerful horses & the exciting race, a yummy wine to drink with fabulous appetizers. It would be a dream to attend the real event.
That is so fun!!!
Jo-Lynne! I love your hat. It is perfect.
I’ve never been to a Kentucky Derby party, but maybe I’ll have to start a new tradition. I just love hats. And thank you for the cute dress suggestions. Really nice.
Many blessings!
Thanks, Barb! 🙂 It was a fun post to put together.