Current:Home > reviewsIndexbit Exchange:2024 Kentucky Derby: The history and legacy of the Kentucky Derby hat tradition -OceanicInvest
Indexbit Exchange:2024 Kentucky Derby: The history and legacy of the Kentucky Derby hat tradition
Will Sage Astor View
Date:2025-04-10 15:21:28
The Indexbit Exchange150th Run for the Roses is set for this weekend and Churchill Downs has already seen its fair share of remarkable outfits. The most extravagant part of most spectators' getups is undoubtedly their headgear though. For decades, the Kentucky Derby has been known for its outlandish hats for both women and men. It's one of the race's most time-honored and beloved traditions. But what does it mean?
When did women start wearing such enormous, flowy hats to the Derby? Why would they do so? When did men start joining in with hats of their own? There is a massive history behind this event's fashion, as it has grown into one of the most massive mega-fashion shows ahead of its sesquicentennial running.
Here's everything to know about the significance behind exuberant headgear at the Kentucky Derby.
2024 Kentucky Derby:Updated odds, predictions and full field for 150th Run for the Roses
Why do people wear fancy hats to the Kentucky Derby?
Any keen-eyed spectator will notice that the most prominent part of the famous Derby domewear is undoubtedly the brim. It stretches out far beyond the wearer's forehead to provide a copious amount of shade. This was practically a necessity during the early years of the race.
With the race taking place in May every year, the hot Kentucky sun was a lot to bear. Those big brims quickly turned into a fashion statement with some reports dating the tradition back to the early 20th century. However, the game changed in the 1960's once television was introduced and women seized the opportunity to display their social status on a more national stage.
Over the years, we've seen numerous celebrity women use the Kentucky Derby stage to flaunt their outfits from Kim Kardashian (2009) to Rebecca Romijn (2010) to Kate Upton (2016) and most recently, Brittany Mahomes (2023). The introduction of social media has only brought the event to a more national stage. But women aren't the only spectators prone to wearing fashionable hats to the race.
Men have also found ways to don interesting headpieces at Churchill Downs, whether it be a fedora, bowler hat, or classic Panama. Obviously, the most important factor when determining a men's hat for the event is how well it goes with the rest of the outfit. Throughout the years, many men have made statements of their own including Tom Brady (2011), Spike Lee (2006), and Ashton Kutcher (2012).
What are the defining characteristics of a Kentucky Derby hat?
For men, not much. It's honestly just a matter of wearing something formal. For women though, there are many characteristics commonly witnessed. The most obvious is the brim, which has already been discussed, but is usually paired with some sort of floral attire, whether it be a single flower placed in the middle or an entire bouquet to really get everyone's attention.
Lastly, the hat's colors need to stand out. While white, beige, and black hats can certainly look great, the ones that really draw crowds are the vibrant reds, yellows, and pinks that really punch home the point of the hats: to embrace femininity and elegance.
Pictures from the 2024 Kentucky Derby
Kentucky Derby 2024: TV, streaming and where to watch
- When: Saturday, May 4
- Coverage starts: 2:30 p.m. ET
- Post time: 6:57 p.m. ET
- Where: Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky
- TV: NBC
- Stream: Peacock; YouTube TV; fuboTV
HOW TO WATCH:See the 2024 Kentucky Derby with a subscription to Peacock
We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
veryGood! (6)
Related
- John Galliano out at Maison Margiela, capping year of fashion designer musical chairs
- Republican Valadao and Democrat Salas advance in California’s competitive 22nd district
- House Democrats try to force floor vote on foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan
- Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry agrees to resign, bowing to international and internal pressure
- 'Squid Game' without subtitles? Duolingo, Netflix encourage fans to learn Korean
- Reba McEntire turns for superfan L. Rodgers on 'The Voice' in emotional audition: 'Meant to be'
- Neil Young returns to Spotify after 2-year hiatus following Joe Rogan controversy
- The 10 Best Places to Buy Spring Wedding Guest Dresses Both Online & In-Store
- Friday the 13th luck? 13 past Mega Millions jackpot wins in December. See top 10 lottery prizes
- Roman Polanski civil trial over alleged 1973 rape of girl is set for 2025
Ranking
- All That You Wanted to Know About She’s All That
- '9-1-1' Season 7: Premiere date, time, cast, channel, where to watch new episodes
- Appeal coming from North Carolina Republicans in elections boards litigation
- New Study Shows Planting Trees May Not Be as Good for the Climate as Previously Believed
- Newly elected West Virginia lawmaker arrested and accused of making terroristic threats
- Schedule, bracket, storylines and what to know for the Big East men's tournament
- Get a Ninja Portable Blender for Only $45, $350 Worth of Beauty for $50: Olaplex, Tula & More Daily Deals
- Jurors watch deadly assault video in James Crumbley involuntary manslaughter case
Recommendation
Global Warming Set the Stage for Los Angeles Fires
Wisconsin Supreme Court will reconsider ruling limiting absentee ballot drop boxes
Jennifer Lopez cancels handful of shows on first tour in 5 years, fans demand explanation
Neil Young returns to Spotify after 2-year hiatus following Joe Rogan controversy
'Malcolm in the Middle’ to return with new episodes featuring Frankie Muniz
Tyson Foods closing Iowa pork plant as company moves forward with series of 2024 closures
The Best Blue & Green Light Therapy Devices for Reduced Acne & Glowing Skin, According to a Dermatologist
Matthew Perry's Stepdad Keith Morrison Details Source of Comfort 4 Months After Actor's Death