Fans of the Kentucky Derby race always make bold clothing choices, but this year, the style has really stepped up. In other words, the fashion and fanfare on the track in 2022 seems to be beyond the maximum level.
“We are thrilled to be back in Churchill Downs,” said Chris Grady of Prospect, Kentucky. “Everyone looks amazing. There is a feeling that we are all very happy to be here this year.”
To celebrate race day, Grady opted for a bright coral suit with a white collared shirt with rose silver accents. He coordinated his outfit with his wife, Dana, who opted for a textured romper in coral, cream, and pink tones and complemented it with a matching charm from Pink Julep.
“When I see the fans on the track, I can tell their outfit is something they really think about,” said fashion designer and former Louisville resident Gunnar Deatherage. A contestant on “Project Runway” Season 10 and “Project Runway Allstar” Season 4, Deatherage was ecstatic with the creativity and panic on display at this year’s race.
“I find that people are really experimental this time of year. It’s the only time of the year when people allow themselves to really take a chance,” he said.
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Louisvillian David Sampson added rhinestones and gold goose collar pins and blue pocket squares to his teal and peach plaid suit. Angela Coots, originally from Southern Indiana, entered the gates of Churchill Downs in a long, bold flowy orange dress with a bright purple brimmed hat surrounded by magenta, sunflower yellow and cobalt blue.
Also enhancing her color choices for the day, her husband, Scott, came dressed in a brilliant blue suit with a blue and yellow plaid shirt.
While bold, bright and neon colors in hot pink, cobalt blue, dazzling yellow, orange and green are the main trends at the weekend Derby track, jumpsuits and rompers are also on display.
“I see so many jumpsuits. It’s like a 1970s flare,” said Deatherage. “Along the same lines, I see men’s collars getting a little bigger. Thanks Harry Stiles and Gucci.”
While fashion designers are adding details like lace, fringe, ruching, and cutouts to their outfits for spring 2022, we’re seeing a lot of racing fans add their own creative twist to their Derby weekend wardrobe.
In fact, no detail is too small when it comes to crafting the perfect outfit for the race.
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“I made this hat by going to Hobby Lobby and buying everything from flowers to wall decor and all sorts of random stuff,” says Louisvillian Jessi Gross. She not only made a stunning navy blue green floral fascinator, but also matched her nail polish to match her outfit.
“Nobody wants to wear the same thing as anyone else, and I think the guys who went to Churchill Downs this weekend got it,” Deatherage said. “If you can add your personal touch to something, I think that’s a really fun idea.”
