The forecast has cleared, the week is starting to wrap up and Derby fever is in full swing around here. Today is the Great Steamboat Race, tomorrow the Parade (and Thurby as they’re now calling Thursday at the track) and then the big weekend gets underway.

If you’re like me and got a last minute invite to the track this weekend (we’re going to Oaks now) and you still need a hat – my recommendations are to swing by one of the local boutiques (or call them if you’re out of town). Dandelion, Clodhoppers, Blink, Circe, Rodeo Drive, Rhodes – they’ve all still got hats … for now. You can also swing into one of the department stores – Von Maur, Dillard’s (who will customize your hat for free if you buy a dress there too) or Macy’s.  If you’re crafty, you can head to Dee’s, pick up some feathers or flowers and deck it out yourself too. I’ve done this in the past and it’s worked perfectly. Just remember, you only need it to last through the day – not a lifetime so a lack of DIY skills isn’t a deal breaker.

Today’s look comes from Leona with a little graphic shift on Lynsey. This headpiece is getting a lot of play this week (unintentionally) but having a white hat is pretty clutch because you can pair it with just about anything. I love how we layered up on the necklaces to give the look a little more color and the length is a big change to the big statement necklaces (not that I don’t love one of those).

Also, I’ve got to start putting out the Derby pics PSA. If you’re heading to the track this weekend, I know you’ll be snapping lots of pictures. Send ’em to me at danielle@louwhatwear.com (or if you’re on instagram – tag me @louwhatwear) and you could spot yourself in next week’s wrap-up post. It’s always one of my favorites and I love love love seeing everyone’s race day looks. It can be a solo shot, you and your dapper date or you and your bestie/sister/mother/co-worker. Just send ’em in!

Leona ‘Saturday Shift’ Dress; Headcandi Hat; Pendant Necklace: Dandelion; Beaded Necklace: Lulubelles available at Dress & Dwell Modeled by Lynsey Creech.
Images by Whitney Neal.