i gotta level with y’all:  growing up in kentucky, there was only one “race day,” and the main event involved a single lap around the track, as opposed to, well, hundreds.  the first time i heard someone in indy mention the big race, i envisioned horses, big hats, mint juleps, and rousing games of crouquet out on the terrace (ok, that last one is a joke).  then i was reminded that one of indianapolis’ claims to fame is the indy 500.  i love hearing hoosiers talk about the indy 500; they’re so passionate.  i am enjoying learning the specifics of the 500, and spending the indy race day surrounded by, and celebrating with, friends.

even so, i’m still a kentucky gal at heart, which means that i had to bring the derby to the 317!  well, not churchill downs or the thoroughbred horses per se, but the style and the traditions (and the mint juleps).  seeing the beautiful dresses, seersucker suits, and big-ass hats that define the kentucky derby always make me swoon.  the derby day dress code is polished and glam:  depending on your style, you’ll see everyone wearing either (a) seersucker or lightly-colored linen suits, or (b) big hats (or fascinators) and gorgeous dresses.  this #mythursdaythreads is all about creating fabulous, derby-ready hat+dress outfits (with some definite i-will-so-wear-that-again pieces).  this is southern style 101.

 

a few general pointers

before we look at the outfits i’ve created, check out the quick pointers below so you know you’ll be camera-ready (whether you’re in a coveted box seat at churchill downs, or celebrating in the 317 or beyond):

• keep it short(er):  derby dresses aren’t usually full-length; midi (knee-length) or mini (above the knee) hemlines are easier to manage (and harder to trip on once you’ve had a few mint juleps)
• prints charming:  think floral, lace, seersucker, and striped dresses (though a vibrant solid-colored dress can be fab, too)
• bright idea:  there will be so much color.  springtime hues will dominate; make color your new bff
• over the top:  there is really no such thing as a too-big or too-embellished hat or fascinator; it’s a pretty big (pun intented) part of race day.  adorn your headwear, try feathers, bows, flowers, and other accoutrements
• mixology:  my style is all about mixing fashion house items with other, more affordable pieces; bottom line, choose what makes you feel beautiful

 

ensemble #1:  metallic + hot pink

glam and poised for attention.  the prada clutch is perfect for basically any night out, and you can rock that herve leger dress again at a holiday party or summer wedding.  where to buy:  dress, clutch, shoes, fascinator

 

ensemble #2:  periwinkle + rose gold

periwinkle is trending in 2018, as are your metallic pieces.  the dress and multi-functional clutch are easy wear-again date night pieces.  where to buy:  dress, hat, pumps, clutch

 

ensemble #3:  floral + pink hues

i love modcloth.  their plus-size dresses are as gorgeous as their x-small dresses.  this dress could go anywhere.  statement earrings are huge right now, and the blush pink sandal is the new neutral.  love. this. outfit.  where to buy:  dress, fascinator, earrings, sandals

 

emsemble #4:  derby 144 (or as i prefer, UofL) theme

kentucky derby 144 has a predominantly red and black theme.  the university of louisville is my beloved alma mater, so i think C-A-R-D-S every time i see the red and black, too.  the white dress is gorgeous, lightweight, and practical enough for use all summer, and the black kate spade crossbody is perma-style.  where to buy:  dress, hat, pumps, handbag

 

ensemble #5:  pink hues + rose gold

reese witherspoon, creator of the draper james brand, always brings southern elegance to her apparel.  this dress is perfect for brunch or afternoon parties.  investing in a quality pair of timeless sunglasses, like the dior ones featured above, ensures you’ll always look like a fashion-forward badass.  where to buy:  dress, hat, heels, sunglasses

 

oh, and don’t forget…

no ensemble is complete without a mint julep in your hand.  kentuckians adore their bourbon, and no derby celebration is complete without a mint julep.  check out the official recipe here.

cheers, y’all.
– stacey