The Kentucky Derby is not only a race that showcases power and athleticism from both horses and humans, but also fashion. This race, held in Louisville, Kentucky, is an incredible event to attend to see the horses run, but also to see all of the unique outfits put together specifically for this event. These outfits have played a significant role in the history of the derby, starting all the way back in the 1800s. The original owner of the derby envisioned an event that felt very luxurious, which would remind people of European racing. These styles have evolved; however,  what you see people wearing today still has characteristics from the very beginning.

In the late 1800s, when the Kentucky Derby just began, the fashion standards were very different. Women would be expected to wear a long dress with a large hoop skirt and whalebone corset underneath. They also typically would wear gloves, as well as a decorative bonnet to keep them cool. The men would wear fitted suits, or sometimes woolen suits if the weather. On top of that, they would wear a hat, usually a bowler, a cloth cap, or a straw bowler. The goal of these looks was to look sophisticated, as this was a time of extreme societal pressures. 

Then came the 1900s looks, and there were lots of changes. At this time, women still wore dresses, however, they were slightly different than before.  The dresses that they wore were very unique, as they were very tight on the legs and made it difficult to walk. These were often called hobble skirts, as they made women hobble to walk. Gloves and bonnets were still very popular, but they were not as large and detailed as they were in the past. The majority of men in this era still wore woolen suits and jackets. They wore a variety of colors, wearing greens, pinks, reds, yellows, and blues. While many people still dressed very formally, some semi-formal styles also began to get popular and fashioned lots of new looks.

The 1950s Kentucky Derby took place in postwar America, and things were changing, which was reflected in clothing. This era is when the Kentucky Derby's focus shifted from the actual race to the fashion. Women were wearing suits, with tight-fitting or loose skirts paired with them. Women still wore gloves and hats, although compared to previous years, these items became much bigger and louder. Part of the enjoyment of the derby became putting together an outfit, and that came with picking out the most decorated hat you could find. Men's outfits also started to become more decorated, with suits and hats, and accessories. They would wear colorful pocket squares, ties, cufflinks, and more. This era was all about maintaining tradition, but also allowing for self-expression through these unique outfits. 

From the 1990s to today, the tradition of dressing up for the derby still remains, although slightly different. The majority of women wear dresses, mostly sundresses and skirts, or some women who prefer a more casual look tend to wear shorts. Gloves are not commonly worn, however, the tradition of the large hats continues even today. It is easy to see many bright colors and patterns, not only on women but also on men. Men today wear suits and blazers, often paired with a tie or bow tie and topped with a hat. 

The fashion at the Kentucky Derby is ever changing, and as the years go on,  it is likely it will involve changes in ways never expected. The tradition will continue on throughout history with these outfits, no matter what changes.