The Kentucky Oaks is sometimes referred to as ‘Louisville’s Day at the Races,’ but lately it seems like more and more out of town guests are coming for the fun on Friday. So if you’re heading to the track for the races on Friday, please remember the Mean Girl’s Wednesday motto and wear pink.

The actual race is the highlight of Friday’s racing card and features three-year-old Thoroughbred fillies (that’s a girl horse in came you’re new to all the racing terminology). In the past few years, Oaks day has become a celebration that also honors breast cancer survivors, including a survivor’s parade right before the marquee race. So in honor of the cause, it’s become quite the tradition to make sure you’re wearing at least a little bit of pink.

Adding a pink tie, bow tie or pocket square may be enough for the fellas but for the fillies (that’s you ladies), I prefer being a little more bold. That doesn’t mean you have to look like a walking Barbie doll though. You can go for a pink hat or headpiece but I prefer the dress route. That way you can branch out a little on the hat (or just recycle/re-purpose an old one).

For me, the key with a pink dress is the silhouette. You want something that is simple and classy – nothing that comes off to sexy or slinky looking. Stick to a structured fit and a ladylike length. Here’s a few favorites (p.s. – the top two are crazy affordable).

Racerback Pink Dress: MM Couture | Strapless Printed Dress: MM Couture
Watermelon Gabriella Dress: Shoshanna | Seamed Detail Dress in Fluo Pink: Milly (more sizes here)

Local boutique Blink carries tons of Shoshanna and Clodhoppers always has tons of great Milly options. Definitely stop in there for more pink options.