photography by Andrew Kung Group
Churchill Downs is bringing the magic of fashion and the Kentucky Derby together once again with the release of its second annual Kentucky Derby Style Guide, ahead of the 151st running of The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports® on Saturday, May 3rd. This year, the guide offers fresh inspiration for fans looking to craft their dream Derby look, whether they're attending the event at the track or celebrating from home.
Returning as guest editor is fashion expert Zanna Roberts Rassi, the fashion journalist and Today Show Style correspondent. With her sharp style instincts and insights from last year’s 150th Derby, Zanna has curated a collection of looks that blend classic elements with modern twists, making this year’s guide one to remember.
The Kentucky Derby is as much a fashion event as it is a thrilling race and the Style Guide reflects that. Featuring a dreamy palette of soft pastels, jewel tones, and dramatic silhouettes, it offers something for everyone, whether you’re drawn to timeless Derby attire or prefer contemporary updates on the iconic looks. The guide highlights key fashion partners and licensees such as Longines, vineyard vines and Radley London, each contributing to the creation of unforgettable Derby Day looks.
“Derby fashion is a celebration of culture and expression,” Zanna Roberts Rassi explains. “It’s about creating modern moments that inspire fans to dream boldly, embrace their personal style, and craft outfits that are as unforgettable as the race itself.”
A standout feature of this year’s Style Guide is the collaboration with the Derby’s renowned milliners. Christine A. Moore Millinery, Formé Millinery Co., and The Hat Girls, who are known for their exquisite headpieces, have contributed their artistry to the guide, ensuring that each Derby outfit is complete with the perfect finishing touch. These headpieces, from elaborate hats to stylish fascinators, add a layer of elegance to every ensemble, helping guests create a look that’s nothing short of spectacular.
“We’re thrilled to have Zanna back as guest editor for the second edition of the Kentucky Derby Style Guide,” said Casey Ramage, Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships at Churchill Downs. “This guide has quickly become an anticipated tradition, bringing together creativity, style, and our incredible partners. We can’t wait to see how fans use it to develop their dream Derby Day looks.”
For those ready to start planning their outfits, the digital version of the Kentucky Derby Style Guide is available at
kentuckyderby.com/style-guide, with links to shop the looks directly from retailers. Fans can also learn more about this year’s race and purchase tickets for the 151st Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks at kentuckyderby.com.
The 84th Anniversary of the Iroquois Steeplechase will be held on May 10th and these looks are perfect for race day! The Iroquois Steeplechase, held at Percy Warner Park, is known for its blend of southern charm and high-end fashion. From infield to the box seats, attendees dress to the nines with women wearing wide-brimmed hats and elegant sundresses and men in seersucker suits and bow ties. Get your tickets now at iroquoissteeplechase.org and make sure to enter the YOUR Williamson’s 8th Annual Iroquois Steeplechase Tailgate Contest! Share your 2025 race day tailgate photos, tag @YOURWilliamson and use #TailgateContest to be entered to win a Topside Tailgate Spot for the 2026 race!
