How To Pick Out A Great Derby Hat

The horses may get some attention but everyone knows The Kentucky Derby is really all about the hat. Tracey Mogard of bespoke British hat-makers Herald and Heart (whose pieces have appeared in Vogue, as well as for the film "Four Weddings and a Funeral") told Conde Nast Traveler, that you have to be brave when it comes to wearing a hat for the Derby and just embrace it. "Don't be afraid to wear one. Even if you think you don’t have a “hat face,” a good milliner will be able to recommend something that will not only work for you, but will make you look and feel great," she says. Here are a few tips for finding the perfect hat. 

And in addition to your hat remember to wear a pair of Solemates High Heelers for the big day. Solemates is so excited about The Derby that it has made a Special Derby Edition for the big day featuring their signature High Heelers in three different sizes (narrow, classic, wide) that will go in each of the official Horseman's bags. Take a look!

1. The Bigger, the better

Go big or go home. According to Hats in the Belfry e-commerce general manager James Sackor: “The bigger the brim, the better,” he said. “The big-brim styles have always been the go-to.”

2. Go for color

You are going to want to go for a bright, bold shade. “Color is what makes the hat pop,” says Sackor.

3. Buy the hat before the dress

Your dress should be snazzy too but at the end of the day the entire ensemble revolved around the hat. So be sure to bring your hat with you when you buy a dress. 

4. The hair issue

If you have long hair, tie it back (plus, it is usually hot down there so you will not want it down.) If it is short, then you are good to go!

5. Just look to Kate

When in doubt, just copy Kate Middleton (the girl rocks a big hat like no other!)