According to the Kentucky Derby's website, the hat-wearing tradition was started by founder Col. Meriwether Lewis Clark, Jr., who modeled the race after high-class European racing events.

Ellen and Stephen Faus during Kentucky Derby 151 at Churchill Downs May 3, 2025. It was the couple’s first time attending the Kentucky Derby.

The Best Hats at the Kentucky Derby From traditional hats to fascinators and headdresses, the best looks at the 151st running of America’s most fashionable sporting event.

There's an age-old saying that goes "be a workhorse, not a show horse." At the Kentucky Derby, where thoroughbred horses come second to fashionable hats and dresses, you can be both. Hundreds of ...

Sometimes the most memorable hats at the Kentucky Derby haven't even been real hats. If a full-on hat sounds a little too sweaty, try creating a fascinator that you can pin into your hair instead.

Ellen and Stephen Faus during Kentucky Derby 151 at Churchill Downs May 3, 2025. It was the couple’s first time attending the Kentucky Derby.

After they married, they became active members of the Kentucky Derby Museum and the Turf Club. Helen had close to 20 hats and fascinators custom made over the years for each of the Derby’s she ...

2024 Kentucky Derby weekend, horses may be in focus, but it's also all about the outfits. We are talking 150 years of fashion, after all. From the initial running of the Kentucky Derby in 1875 to ...

The 2025 Kentucky Derby will take place at Churchill Downs in Louisville May 3. But the event isn't just horseplay. We're tipping our hat to Travis Kelce, Jessica Simpson and more of the best looks.