Derby Day
DERBY DAY ATTIRE
The Derby celebrates over 150 years of tradition, glamour, and daring design. And, it is your moment to stand out, express yourself, and be remembered.
Style for Derby week is extremely versatile. Dresses, jumpsuits, pantsuits, and polished separates are all appropriate. If you are attending clubhouses or private venues, review dress codes in advance, as requirements may vary.
Oaks Day (Friday) honors breast and ovarian cancer survivors in partnership with Susan G. Komen. Pink is a meaningful and time-honored tradition—whether head-to-toe or as a subtle accent.
LETTER FROM THE MILLINER
What To Wear?
- Derby is not the time to play small.
- It’s a celebration of style, personality, and presence – and your hat is the centerpiece of it all.
- The right piece doesn’t just complement your outfit… it defines it. It draws the eye, It starts conversations, It gives you “that” feeling the moment you put it on—This is it!
- And if you’ve ever thought “I could never wear a hat like that…” Let me gently tell you—you absolutely can! Because the secret isn’t confidence before the hat. It’s the confidence the right hat gives you.
- Every woman can wear a statement piece. The magic is finding the one that feels like you— just elevated, refined, and ready for the spotlight.
- And when you find it, you’ll know.
- Suzanne, Milliner
- Fascinated by Hats
HAT OR OUTFIT FIRST?
Either approach works – the Key is balance
Outfit First
If fit is your priority, start here. A coordinating hat or fascinator can then be chosen or custom-designed to complete your Derby look.
Hat First
Choose your hat first if you want it to be the statement. Pair it with an outfit that complements without competing.
DERBY STYLING PRINCIPLES
Scale Matters More at the Derby
The Derby invites drama—but balance still rules.
A larger hat or fascinator should feel intentional and elegant, never overwhelming.
Color is Your Power Move
Don’t be afraid of bold color.
The most striking Derby looks are colorful yet feature one dominant color through the hat or outfit for a refined, polished & confident look.
Movement & Detail Catch the Eye
Feathers, sculptural shapes, and trims create dimension and life.
These details are what make your look photographed and remembered.
Hats & Fascinators are Equally Appropriate
Choose what feels confident & comfortable for your particular setting.
If attending the Oaks & the Derby, a fascinator is perfect for friday, while a hat or large fascinator makes a striking Derby Day statement.
Wear it Like You Mean It!
The difference between “wearing” a hat… and “owning” it
is simply how you carry yourself.
Stand Tall.
Smile.
Let the hat do what it was designed to do.