The blast of trumpets and eruption of cheers; the rainbow of over-the-top outfits and feathered fascinators; the clink of julep cups filled with Kentucky bourbon – it’s Derby Day! From equine enthusiasts and racing fans to savvy fashionistas, crowds will gather in spirited camaraderie this May to celebrate a major milestone for the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. More than an exhilarating sporting event, the Run for the Roses has inspired the fashion, food, and way of life for many across the South and farther afield. We’re sharing plenty of enticing ways to experience – and channel – the splendor of Bluegrass Country. Host a Derby-themed fete at home and read expert tips from award-winning milliners; tour beautiful horse farms and set spectacular tables. No matter how you plan to partake in the revelry, we hope this very special issue inspires you. Cheers!
Derby Celebrations 2024
150 Years of Iconic Southern Fanfare
SOUTHERN STYLE • FROM EXTRAVAGANT HATS TO EQUESTRIAN HOME DÉCOR, THESE ARTISANS AND DESIGNERS CHANNEL THE SPIRIT OF KENTUCKY’S MOST ICONIC SPORTING EVENT, CELEBRATING 150 YEARS ON MAY 4, 2024.
Best in Show • On a historic Thoroughbred farm, a stately new home espouses the special brand of Southern hospitality displayed in its famous 1812 predecessor.
Tip of the Hat • From classic caps to Kentucky Derby dazzlers, Polly Singer designs distinctive millinery couture to top off myriad outfits with the perfect finishing touch.
Polly’s Expert Styling Tips • Feel fashion-forward and fabulous with these considerations sure to help you select the perfect accessory to top off any look.
Rural Splendor • A creative yet timeless design approach helps this cozy farmhouse stand up to the demands of country living.
Portraits of Equine Elegance • Whether it is the kind-eyed gaze of a Thoroughbred mare or the colorful plumage of wood ducks and wild turkeys, a Kentucky artist and entrepreneur captures the amazing beauty of the animal kingdom.
Cloche Quarters • Whether creating a felt fedora or a chic fascinator, this New York milliner makes sure fashion-conscious ladies—and gentlemen—are topped in style
Coming Up Roses • The official flower of the Kentucky Derby, the red rose has endured as a radiant hallmark of race weekend for more than a century.
A Flourishing Tradition • Let the Kentucky Derby’s signature blossom be your muse when honoring this esteemed event.
ENTERTAINING IDEAS • PLAN A FABULOUS PARTY FOR THIS MILESTONE YEAR WITH OUR DERBY-INSPIRED RECIPES AND CREATIVE TABLE SETTINGS THAT PAY TRIBUTE TO THE RUN FOR THE ROSES.
Fanciful Derby Luncheon • Celebrate the Run for the Roses at home with flourishes and fare on point for the sport’s esteemed pomp and pageantry.
Off to the Races: A Fine Derby Day Tea • The thunder of galloping hooves, the taste of mint juleps, and the sight of lavish wide-brimmed hats can mean only one thing—the Kentucky Derby.
WINNING DESTINATIONS • WHETHER BOURBON TASTINGS, HISTORY TOURS, OR LUXE RETREATS STRIKE YOUR FANCY, THERE’S PLENTY TO ENJOY ACROSS KENTUCKY’S ILLUSTRIOUS BLUEGRASS REGION.
Town & Countryside • Natural marvels abound at Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, a must-visit for outdoor recreation and idyllic scenery only 25 miles south of Kentucky’s lively downtown Louisville.
Louisville Treasure • An 18th-century estate offers a remarkable window to the past and a forum to reflect on lessons for the future.
RESOURCES & CREDITS • To locate items featured in our articles, please refer to the information below. If an item is not listed, it is privately owned and purchasing information is unavailable.
