Horse racing events are more of fashion than the sport itself. Fashion is undoubtedly the chief attraction of a racing event. Women and men are brimming with enthusiasm and excitement, and the spirit is reflected in their attire. Horse racing hats and caps are on full display. Ladies go overboard by buying exclusive designer outfits, especially for the racing event. Women would love to highlight their extravagant lifestyle by flaunting their latest collection and style of fascinators.
Horse races seem to be the hub of fashion, where we can see the spontaneous display of extravagant headwear. The hat traditions and the outfits at horse races have become an integral part of the racing events. Even people who do not have a passion for the sport are well-aware of the elaborate hats worn at the event. According to the Town and Country Magazine, Kentucky Derby is an annual fashion event. People get an opportunity to go overboard with Southern-influenced designs, florals, vibrant colors, and hats.
There are several odd practices related to the conventional horse racing sport. However, wearing elaborate and huge hats seems to be the strangest of all horse racing traditions. However, nobody seems to know how and exactly where this hat-wearing custom originated. Let us explore the general dress etiquette for men and women.
Women:
- Spring wear or daywear like skirts and dresses, an inch above your knee or even longer.
- Jumpsuits and trousers that should be full-length
- Headgears or hats that have a base of four inches or more.
- Heels or flats, preferably wedges.
Men:
- Gray or black morning dress
- Gray or black top hats
- Smart caps
- Well-polished black shoes
Kids should come wearing the same clothes as their gender. They should also flaunt hats.
Hats & Caps to Wear For Horse Racing Events
The history of flaunting exotic and elaborate hats and caps in horse racing events goes back to the 1900s. It was then that horse racing was acknowledged as predominantly a fashion event. Ladies had to attend looking their best in their best day attire. Back then, hats were a symbol of social status. Bigger hats were representative of greater affluence. Women from the elite class took this opportunity to show off their exclusive hats and headgears created by famous hat designers in the fashion circuit.
However, even men did not stay behind in demonstrating their social status and affluence. They participated in this celebration wholeheartedly. They looked chic and sophisticated in their hats. Even today hats are very much honored as a racing event custom. Women come to these events wearing some of the iconic and extravagant hats. However, men are not far behind in making a bold statement with their large wide-brimmed hats and caps.
Flat Cap
The flat caps are quite commonly worn by men in racing events. They have a round, oval base with a flat top. The brim seems to be slightly hard. These caps are made from cotton, tweed, and wool. There are several names for this type of cap such as, Ivy cap, driving cap, Wigens cap, Gatsby cap, Derby cap, and more. In the 1900s, a flat cap was referred to as a bonnet. However, it was treated as a standard cap best for boys in the 20th century. In the Kentucky Derby, the flat caps are quite common.
Fedora Hats
Fedora hats were an integral part of formal business attire. However, they eventually became favorite headgear worn to races by men. Fedora hats are incredibly versatile, thanks to the different styles and shapes. A fedora has a soft brim and a crease at the center of the top of the hat. Fedora hats are made of materials that come from beaver, rabbit, cashmere, or wool. These hats have a nice lining wrapping the entire hat above the brim. Fedoras became famous thanks to Hollywood movies. Indiana Jones was always seen wearing a Fedora hat. Fedoras are best for highlighting men’s suits during social events. Men may attend a racing event wearing a brightly-colored Fedora.
Cowboy Hats
Cowboy hats are certainly best for men with an adventurous heart, a fashion sense, and a love for horse riding. Cowboy hats are available from top brands like Stetson, American Hat Company, Resistol, etc. A cowboy hat is worn for complete sun protection, and it has become a trendy lifestyle fashion. There is nothing wrong if you deviate a bit from the tradition and wear an exquisite wide-brimmed and tightly-woven straw hat or a vintage velvet hat to add to the racing fashion. Both father and son can wear matching straw hats to the racing event and create memorable father-son moments.
Women could wear wide-brimmed hats and let their imagination run wild. Add your creativity to your headgear. Wear it with a stunning bow or a scarf. Wearing a hat brings good luck in a racing event. You may wear a straw hat with a bold ribbon band to steal the show. A bold ribbon could be an elegant way of dressing up a simple and understated straw hat. However, choose a hat after careful consideration because your racing outfit has to revolve around the specific hat you have chosen to wear to the event.
Boater Hats
A boater hat is a perfect hat for the hot summer days because it is lightweight and provides the necessary shade to your eyes and face. A boater hat is more compatible with blazers than formal coats. Boater hats are composed of straw, and they look different when different types of ribbons are used as bands. Two colors may be used in the ribbon band. Two bands of red with black in the middle could create a striped accent. It helps to keep your look festive and fun.
Panama Hats
Panama hats are usually made of straw. They are perfect for hot climates. Men look great when they pair their suits with a nice Panama hat. Panama hats are fashionable and functional. They are best for shielding your eyes from the blazing sun. Panama hats were actually created in Ecuador. They always come in a light tone. You may choose a tightly- woven Panama hat. A tight weave is an assurance of good quality.
Unbeatable Women’s Horse Racing Fashion
Women may wear an oversized rose hat. On a race day, women have the license to go wild. Women may try fascinators. These are small headpieces worn on combs or headbands. Fascinators are best for sparking interest. They look extravagant with colorful bows and feathers. Fascinators may be small headgears, but smaller size doesn’t necessarily mean low drama. Take your headgear fashion to eye-catching heights by wearing a fascinator with a veil band or embellishing it with sequins. Nothing can match women’s fashion at the racing events.
Conclusion
Horse racing events allow you to go overboard with your fashion sense. Hats will always remain the focal point of these racing events. Be a part of this spectacular fashion extravaganza by choosing the right hat to suit your attire and personality.
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