Kentucky Derby navy and pink

Kentucky Derby navy and pink by akeale featuring a lace cocktail dress

Kentucky Derby Style

Kentucky Derby Style by akeale featuring a chevron print purse

Bad Derby hats

I've posted examples of cute hats that are appropriate for the Kentucky Derby so I thought I'd post some examples that aren't Derby-worthy.

You cannot buy your Derby hat at Walmart or Target. A simple floppy sun hat will not do. I know you want to save money but, trust me, a proper Derby hat can't be found at  big box discount store.

Boooorrring!

 Nope. Not even close.

Do not DIY and try to dress up a Walmart or Target hat. You can't hot glue some ribbon and flower from Michael's on it. That would be like taking a Sharpie and writing "Dom Perignon" on a 40 of Miller High Life. 

 Good try. 

Red Hat Society hats are a big no. They're fine when you're having tea with your classmates from the class of 1920 but not at the Derby.

No.

There's a not-so fine line between a Kentucky Derby hat and "I raided my grandma's closet." Be sure you're on the right side of that line. A few examples of Grandma's Closet:

Unusual is good, bizarre is not.You're at the Kentucky Derby, not the royal wedding.

Not to mention this thing will set you back $1,400.

How does this even stay on??

Kentucky Derby navy and pink

Kentucky Derby navy and pink by akeale featuring a lace dress

Kentucky Derby- Navy and Yellow

Kentucky Derby by akeale featuring dorsay pumps

Kentucky Derby Style- Turquoise and Orange

Here's a little something I threw together on Polyvore tonight. Since it's a few days after Christmas, spring dresses haven't quite made their appearance but I did my best!  Hat by Dees Crafts in Louisville (they have the COOLEST hats). Dress is Ted Baker London from Nordstrom. Shoes are Stuart Weitzman from 6pm.com. Purse Michaels Kors from Macy's. Jewelry is by Fornash. Nail polish is Cajun Shrimp by OPI.