Hold Up—These Kentucky Derby Outfit Ideas Are Actually So Chic

Black Wrap Dress Kentucky Derby Outfit

Whether you’re heading to Louisville or just hosting your own Kentucky Derby-watching party, you know the perfect look is an important part of race day. But while it’s undeniably fun to get decked out in an enormous hat and a pretty spring frock, it’s easy to drift into costume territory with a combination of such big and bright pieces. Don’t get us wrong—if that’s your jam, you do you! But if you tend to gravitate toward more minimal looks and want to go for a more everyday ‘fit than an over-the-top combination, we’re here for you with seven seriously chic ensembles to recreate (along with some solid hat suggestions) for your weekend of derby-themed fun.

White Mini Dress Kentucky Derby Outfit
PHOTO: @fracturedaesthetic

The Look: A White Mini Dress

Wear With:  A Straw Wide-Brimmed Hat

Flouncy mini dresses are a fun, easy option for last-minute plans. Go with a white shade and straw hat for summer vibes.

Red Midi Dress Kentucky Derby Outfit
PHOTO: @nayelizabethh

The Look: A Red Midi Dress

Wear With: An Embroidered Floppy Hat

Since everyone else will be wearing pastels, why not stand out in a bold red number? Choose a breezy midi dress for comfort all day, and add a floppy hat with matching embroidery for the perfect finishing touch.

Navy Blue Shift Dress Kentucky Derby Outfit
PHOTO: @katilyn_perry

The Look: A Navy Shift

Wear With: A Straw Boater Hat

If you’re a minimalist at heart, opt for a low-key shift dress in a neutral color. To bring it into the season, add a pair of bright white mules and throw on a boater hat for a chic take on a derby classic.

Blue Wrap Dress Kentucky Derby Outfit
PHOTO: @lebellagypsy

The Look: A Wrap Dress

Wear With: A Color-Blocked Rancher Hat

I love a good wrap dress and, judging from my Instagram feed, everyone else does too. Go with the season’s must-have piece paired with a simple rancher hat for a perfect day-in-the-sun look.

Floral Midi Dress Kentucky Derby Outfit
PHOTO: @xharpism

The Look: A Floral Midi Dress

Wear With: A White Straw Sun Hat

Nothing says spring quite like a floral midi dress, so go with this ensemble for a classic look. A white sun hat will freshen up a darker color, and silver loafers add an unexpected flair if you need a little something extra.

Black Top and Polka Dot Skirt Kentucky Derby Outfit
PHOTO: @coexvst

The Look: A Basic Top and A Polka-Dotted Pencil Skirt

Wear With: A Garden Hat

If summer dresses really aren’t your thing, forgo the floral maxi for an all-black combination. A polka-dotted skirt is just fancy enough, and a long-sleeved tee will ensure you’re comfortable and warm all day long (because really, who knows how the weather will turn out?).

Two-Piece Set Kentucky Derby Outfit
PHOTO: @withatashofstyle

The Look: A Black Two-Piece Set

Wear With: A Boater Hat

I can’t think of a better occasion than the Kentucky Derby to officially break out that adorable two-piece set for the season. Go for a top and skirt in black, and throw on your straw boater hat for a standout ensemble you’ll end up wanting to wear every day of the week.

What are you wearing for derby day? Tag us in your #OOTD on Instagram @cfashionista!

Featured photo by @itsdemib.

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