The 2023 Kentucky Derby was the 149 renewal of the Run for the Roses — that’s 14 fashion-filled decades! We’re hitting some highlights of the past — and giving you inspiration on how to add a nostalgic vibe to your Derby look.
The ’20s Fashion: minimal layers became the new standard; clothing became looser and shorter.
Alessandra’s Style: “My Derby outfit usually involves and A-line dress with either floral patterns or polka dots, complemented with a bold fascinator. for Derby, and all special occasions, I always use my grandmother’s vintage jewelry, including her gold leopard bracelet and amethyst ring.”
Here, Alessandra is wearing items found at Nitty Gritty.
The ’50s Fashion: unpadded, rounded shoulders, shapely bust lines, closely-defined waistlines, and full, billowy skirts.
Landi’s Style: “While I have never been to the Derby, I do attend many of the Derby Festival events. This year I’m planning on wearing my ’50s reproduction denim jeans to the Balloon Glow for a casual retro look.”
Here, Landi is wearing items from Heather Gifford of Reflections Vintage (harddayslight@gmail.com), Sustainable Vintage, and Clematis Wallace. Other items can be found in various booths at Fleur de Flea Vintage Urban Market.
The ’60s Fashion: A-line mini skirts, contrast collar shift dresses, textured tights, low heel flats and tall boots, swing coats, and floppy hats.
Dalili Duvall’s Style: “I love vintage accessories, handbags, and jewelry. I try flea markets to see if I can find a diamond in the rough, but I’ve raided my mom’s jewelry box many times to find a special piece to make me pop.”
Tariq Shabazz’s Style: “Fashion is my passion. However, this was my first time ever wearing anything vintage. It was humorous in the beginning, until I started to put the outfit together and it went from funny to fabulous. I actually went from laughing at myself to owning it.”
Here, Dalili and Tariq are wearing items from Clematis Wallace, Angie Watts, and Sustainable Vintage, Worn & Company, found at Fleur de Flea Vintage Urban Market, and Derby Revival found at Revelry Boutique and Gallery.
The ’70s Fashion: bell bottom pants, frayed jeans, mini skirts, maxi dresses, Tie dye, peasant blouses, and ponchos.
Michelle Ramsey’s Style: “I pick my outfit based on my mood and energy, and try to incorporate the colors and emblems of each event.” – Michelle Ramsey (left).
Allison Cook’s Style: “I usually base my Derby look around my hat or fascinator. Last year I wore a black and white polka dot jumpsuit and added a pop of color with a red fascinator.” – Allison Cook (right).
Here, Michelle and Allison are wearing items from Clematis Wallace, Caesar, and Reflections Vintage found at Fleur de Flea Vintage Urban Market; Frank Olive Hats by Gabriel Amar available at Von Maur, Oxmoor Center; and Jen’s Derby Hats available at Polkadotted Pineapple Boutique, Shelbyville, KY.
The ’80s Fashion: ’80s bold style, colors, and silhouettes – permed hair included.
Luna Bae’s Style: “There are many ways to put a Derby outfit together. I start with the dress. The dress is the main canvas of the look and the hat is the final touch. I’d love to incorporate a vintage hat with a modern Derby fashion look. – Luna Bae
Here, Luna is wearing items from Nitty Gritty and Attitudes by Angie available at Rodeo Drive.
By Tiffany White | Photos by Melissa Donald taken at Fleur de Flea Vintage Urban Market
Styling by Tiffany White with help from Clematis Wallace and Heather Gifford
Set Styling by Jill Cobb, Jillian Jones, and Tami Patterson
Hair by Krista Nenni, J. Estell Salon | Makeup by Stephani Jones, Z Salon & Spa
P.S. Throwing a Derby party at home? What’s on your bar cart?
Leave a Reply