What are you wearing to Derby? Seems like we are running out of time to find an outfit! Don’t stress, StyleBlueprint is helping you out today, as we have canvassed the local shops for Derby dresses for the last few weeks. We’ve noticed some trends along the way, trends that you might want to be a part of. We have divided the dresses by trend, so if you are shopping for a specific look, you’ll know just where to find it.

As you well know, it’s important to get the base of the outfit before accessorizing with hats, shoes and clutches. So first things first — today we are just sticking to dresses. (And make sure you read to the end to see two examples of what to wear for your man — we can’t forget about him, right?!)

Trend: Two-Piece

The two-piece skirt and top trend is all over the boutiques in Louisville. This is a great bang for your buck, as you are able to wear them together and then as separates later.

Derby What to Wear
From M.E. Modern Elegance: aqua blue lace top, $48, and matching skirt, $52
This pink outfit would be perfect for Oaks.
From Apricot Lane: pink and white top for $39 and skirt for $48

Trend: Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are found at many local boutiques as well. These are flattering and comfortable, but if you’re a little concerned, don’t worry. Here’s a guide for how to wear one. And word to the wise, it’s difficult to use the restroom in one of these, as it requires completely taking it off.

We love this read jumpsuit to wear to the Kentucky Derby.
From Collections: red jumpsuit, $118
We love the cutout detail on this red jumpsuit!
We love the cutout detail on this red jumpsuit!
This jumpsuit is a cute option for what to wear to the Kentucky Derby.
From Apricot Lane: aqua blue jumpsuit, $69

Trend: Neon brights

Light up the track and your complexion with these neon brights, which are pretty popular right now.

Derby What to Wear
From Boutique Serendipity: neon floral shift dress, $298
Derby What to Wear
From Monkee’s: sleeveless flare dress with neon pink, yellow and tan, $350

Trend: Sheer mesh

Mesh is showing up in all sorts of fun places on dresses. It’s a good eye-catching detail on any dress, especially if done tastefully.

Derby What to Wear
From Rodes: Hot pink dress with sheer front panel, $264
Derby What to Wear
Take a close-up look at the mesh detail.
Derby What to Wear
From Rodeo Drive: blue peplum dress with sheer center, $595
Derby What to Wear
So sheer, it’s like there’s nothing there!

Trend: Floral

Floral patterns are always a trend, especially on Derby dresses. This year we saw everything from delicate petals to strong red roses.

Derby What to Wear
From Peacock Boutique: fleur dress with white overlay, $375
Derby What to Wear
From Work the Metal: black-and-white striped dress with big, red roses, $55
what to wear derby
From Something Blue: floral on white dress, $74

Trend: Overlay

So many dresses this year seem to have two layers. Either with lace or a geometric pattern, this peek-a-boo trend is fresh and interesting.

Derby What to Wear
From Liv Boutique: red dress with lace overlay, $438
Derby What to Wear
From The Shirt Shop: navy eyelet keyhole back dress, $198
what to wear derby
From Peacock Boutique: shades of coral and white lace dress, $375
what to wear derby
From Crush Boutique: yellow and white overlay dress, $160

Trend: Blue and White

Crisp and spring-like blue and white is flattering on everyone. We saw it in many shades, from royal blue to navy.

Derby What to Wear
From Merci: blue and white ribbon textured dress, $395
what to wear derby
From Blu Boutique: blue and white textured dress, $289

Other Favorites

While these dresses don’t necessarily fit into a trend, they were some of the most popular picks of the boutique managers:

what to wear derby
From Blu Boutique: red off the shoulder dress, $209
what to wear derby
From General Eccentric: coral dress, $44
what to wear derby
From Circe + Swag: silk dress in marigold, $455
what to wear derby
From J. McLaughlin: orange and blue linen print dress, $188, and belt, $65

MEN’S LOOKS

We cannot forget about the menfolk for Derby. The Fashion Post offers two types of looks — a dressy track outfit and a casual Derby party outfit.

sb derby what to wear fashion post sportcoat
From The Fashion Post: Soft constructed seersucker sport coat from Paul Betenly, $395; Super 140’s merino wool trousers from Aristo 18, $225; 100 percent cotton oxford cloth button-down shirt from Gitman Bros., $145; 100 percent silk bow tie, $65, and linen edge tipped pocket square, $60, both from R. Hanauer
sb derby what to wear fashion post casual
From The Fashion Post: Horse racing on mint trousers from Castaway Clothing, $135; 100 percent cotton poplin sport shirt from F.A. MacCluer, $125; wool surcingle belt, $45, from Torino Leather Company

Whew! That’s a lot of options. Hopefully you’ll have as easy a time picking your horse as you will your outfit.

Before you shop, be sure to download the free SB App so that you know where all these great outfits are.

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About the Author
Heidi Potter