Kentucky Derby – Hat-tastic

Plaza Suite Fireworks Hat

 

Giddie up horsey!  Ah, the Kentucky Derby, did you watch the race?  I did.  It is always exciting to cheer the horse you want to win.

I was partial to Mucho Macho Man.  But the Kentucky Derby  is not just about horses, you know.                                                    It is also about the HAT.

The word derby is a dead give away.  Derby is a type of hat, “a stiff felt hat with a round crown and a small curved brim”, but the hats that are worn, by the women attendees, are far from small or stiff.

Hats! What a way to make a statement.  No matter how large, frilly, lacy, tiny, or wacky, wearing a hat is definitely an attention getter.

I am happy that the tradition of hats is still in play at Churchill Downs.  At one time a hat was a necessary part of a wardrobe.  I understand you could not leave home without one.  Whoa to those who did not wear a hat. You were labeled a common beggar if you did not have one on your head, this was a standard rule for both men and woman.  Hats played an important role in the history of horse racing for many centuries, going as far back to the world famous Royal Ascot in the United Kingdom, where a dress code was strictly enforced.

Hats are still in vogue, but not always worn.  I happen to love a great hat.  I really use it to keep the sun off my face, but I found out that when you put on a hat you suddenly transform into someone else.  I have had people comment, “Great hat”, “Looking good” and “You look like a famous person”, who knew a simple hat would attract so much positive attention.  Remember the Easter Parade?  Now that was a hat show. The more outlandish the hat the more attention it was given.

The next time you want to complete your outfit top it off with a great hat, and watch the transformation.

Your friends will be saying,”You look hat-tastic.”

Check out the top 10 hats at the Kentucky Derby 2011
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/694068-2011-kentucky-derby-top-10-hats-at-churchill-downs
mb