Explore all the Best Looks From the 2024 Kentucky Derby
See which of your favorite celebrity icons showed up to the beloved event in style.
While it may not receive the same hype as the Oscars or the Met Gala, the Kentucky Derby is a fashion event in its own right. While horse racing may not appear as an event in line with formal, red carpet dressing, the fashion of the event has become one of the buzziest aspects surrounding it. The occasion is rooted in a strong tradition of dressing up to the nines in extravagant hats, vibrant floral attire, and plenty of platform sandals.
Historically, the event was reserved for upper-class attendees, who showed up to the event in style, sporting formal attire while sitting in the stands. These days, the event is frequented by horse-racing aficionados, socialites, and celebrities alike, all of whom continue the tradition of Kentucky Derby dressing.
One of the most unique facets of the event is the glamorous, over-the-top hats sported by many of its attendees. The tradition was born out of necessity, as attendees had to block the hot Kentucky sun from bearing down on them throughout the duration of the races. As a result, guests began meshing function with fashion, and thus, the iconic Kentucky Derby hat style was born. To this day, many fashion-forward guests take the opportunity to embrace extravagance by sporting the opulent hats that have become synonymous with the event.
This year, celebrities like Alex Cooper, Sunny Choi, Tina Knowles, and Alix Earle showed up to the races ready to show off their top-tier 2024 Kentucky Derby outfits. As an influencer with a wide reach, fans unaccustomed to the event's attire were pleasantly surprised to see Earle sporting an oversized white hat, vibrant floral gown, and baby pink Malone Souliers pumps on May 3. Cooper also showed up in style, sporting a look curated by acclaimed celebrity stylist Mimi Cuttrell, featuring a chic Kendra Scott necklace from the designer's newest collection, complete with matching earrings. While the event is typically a star-studded affair, celebrities showed up to the tracks this year in droves, proving that the Kentucky Derby is an It event in its own right. Just as NFL games and Formula 1 races have become some of the most highly anticipated events of the year, so too has the Kentucky Derby.
Curious to see which of your favorite celebrities abided by the traditional derby dress code? Join L'OFFICIEL as we take a look at some of the best 2024 Kentucky Derby outfits.
