Over the weekend (or was it last week – I have no idea, the days are running together because I am truly a hot mess right now), I got a request from a gal coming in town to attend the Kentucky Derby on the backside of the track. I, for one, have never gotten the invite to this somewhat unknown area of the track but I do have a couple friends who have spent Derby day back there.
For those who aren’t from around here (that just sounded so country and I thought about deleting it but instead think it fits), the backside of the track is where the horse stables are located. The week leading up to Derby makes this a hot spot and you’ll find all the local TV stations and a few radio outlets broadcasting live from here every morning. It’s a great spot to check out the early morning work outs of all the Derby horses. I’ve only been out there a couple times (with clients who scored an appearance on a morning show) but it’s got a very fun vibe those early mornings leading up to Derby. Definitely a Derby buzz in the air. But enough about that, you want to know what to wear on Derby.
The backside, since it is primarily a place for horse stables, can be a pretty muddy zone even if it’s not muddy. Chances are, with the moonsoon season we’ve been in the last few weeks, it will be at least a little muddy out there. It’s also a much more casual atmosphere for watching the races. So when you’re getting dressed, my pick is for an easy sundress and boots. Think a little fancier, a little preppier festival style. I’ve definitely seen gals in this area wear hats but they are usually a little simpler (think wide brim straw hats or very simple fascinators) than the elaborate scenes you’ll find on the opposite end of the track.
If you’re heading to the backside (that’s what she said), pick something you’ll be comfortable wearing while plopping down in a fold-out chair or taking a break on a bleacher seat. And definitely no heels. First off, you don’t want to ruin them but you also don’t want to look silly or roll an ankle.
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