Around here, while Derby and Oaks are the BIG events – the month leading up to the first Saturday in May is full of racing. Throughout the month of April there’s Keeneland – the most beautiful race track in Lexington that is a preppy clothes lovers dream every weekend. Then the week leading up to Derby, Churchill Downs is in full swing. The entire week the track is buzzing and you’ll find it crowded with locals.

And while hats and head pieces are a necessity on Oaks and Derby, on these other racing days you won’t find yourself in a sea of hats. This look is what I’ll be wearing for a trip to the track in the coming days. I snagged this stripped number at Dress & Dwell over the holidays but the bright stripes make it equally appropriate for Spring. And since you never know when the temperatures may dip (hello 80 degrees yesterday and 50 degrees today), I paired a bright blue blazer to keep the chill off.

I also have to share my tip for looking good for all the Derby festivities. I’ve gotten to be quite the fan of sunless tanning. There’s a Sun Tan City right around the corner from my house, which makes it easy for me to swing by and get a little color before big events. If you’re in Louisville, they have new VersaSpa machines that are seriously boss. They take care of everything for you from the prep lotion, to a double pass on your legs (my favorite part because you know you want them to look good in a skirt/dress) and moisturizer at the end. It also has a heated drying pass which keeps you from freezing your butt off in the booth. I’m admittedly a big fan especially this time of year.  Oh and good news, your first visit is free between Sunday and Wednesday which is perfect. Swing by on Wednesday and you’ll have the perfect color for the weekend. Head over here to see if there’s a Sun Tan City near you.

p.s. – my number one tip for sunless tanning, make sure you wait long enough before showering. you may look a little crazy dark the first night but it will be worth it when it lasts longer!

Dress: Dress & Dwell; Jacket: H&M; Shoes: BCBG (old similar here)