Derby-mania is in full swing around these parts and as it gets closer to the big day by the minute (don’t remind me, I still need EVERYTHING!), local stores are having some great events and offering deals to help you put together the perfect look. Note for out of towners coming in for Derby, the gals at these shops know Derby fashion like no one else. If you’re in a lurch, give them a call, tell them what you like (and more importantly, what you don’t like) and they can pull some great, full looks for you. You’ll have all your Derby gear waiting for you when you arrive!

Without further ado, here’s a list of what I’ve got so far. If you’re a Louisville or Lexington boutique and have a deal or event you’d like to add, email me at danielle@louwhatwear.com

* Dandelion: I love Dandelion. It is my go-to for gifts (for others and myself) because they have a seriously huge selection of jewelry, accessories and home goodies. If you’re in need of last minute Derby accessories, swing by there on Saturday April 27th for their Annual Trifecta Sale. It’s an all-day event where you can save 20% off any combination of three handbags, jewelry and/or hats. Bring in your dress, hat or shoes (or all of them) and they’ll help you pick out the finishing touches!

* Dress & Dwell: The New Albany boutique is hosting a “Derby Open House Southern Tea Bar & Trunk Show” tonight (April 18th). It starts at 5 pm and will be going strong until the store closes at 8 pm. HEADcANDI designer Britni Knable works at this perfectly curated shop and you’ll be able to find all you need to nail your entire look or simply top off your Derby outfit (nerdy pun intended).
AND, if you stop in today you’ll receive 20% off any Derby dress in the store. Time to schedule a trip across the bridge.

* Clodhoppers: Stop by this St. Matthews boutique and check out their insanely awesome Milly Trunk Show, going on now through Saturday April 21st. I’ve seen it in person and the racks are chock full of every Milly beauty you could ever want. Try on my two favorites (here and here) and pair them with one of the many HEADcANDI hats in store.

* Blink!: Right now, this St. Matthews stop isn’t promoting a specific event or sale (they had a Derby party last Saturday – my bad for not sharing), they have an amazing selection of Shoshanna dresses (see one of my picks here) that you can top off with a beautiful Rigel Rayment hat like the one below. Make sure to like them on Facebook to stay up to date on any specials.
* The Pink Julep: I’ve yet to stop by this {relatively} new boutique in Chenoweth Square but I’ve heard from tons of friends that it is adorable. This was confirmed when I saw that they are hosting a Spring Catwalk at Tin Woof (Tin Roof) tonight from 7 to 9 pm. They’ll be showing off their Spring fashions along side food, drinks and raffle prizes. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Humane Society so stop by if you’re in the area.

* The Fashion Post: Let’s not forget about the fellas. It’s just as important for your guy to look great at the track. The Fashion Post is THE place to take your man to get the true Southern Gentleman look. This Saturday April 20th they are hosting “Cookies & Bow Ties” to benefit Gilda’s Club of Louisville. Stop by for a snack and browse their enormous selection of neck ware. You’ll be sure to find the perfect tie or bow tie, from the likes of High Cotton, Vineyard Vines and R. Hanauer, to compliment both his look and to perfectly pair with your ensemble.
More Shopping Options:

* Circe: Looking for a selection of DVF, Clover Canyon, Tibi, Nanette Lepore and more? Stop by Circe and have their uber-stylish team help put together your look.

* Collections at Wesport Village: This is the perfect place to find a unique Derby look that won’t break the bank. The airy store is filled with dresses, tons of jewels and a full selection of hats.

* Peacock Boutique: Serious fashionistas can drop into this Frankfort Aveunue boutique to find looks from Camilla & Marc, McQ by Alexander McQueen and M Missoni. You can add a hat from Phillip Treacy or MEMSAHIB.

* Crush Boutique: From now until May 15, Crush (which is located in Middletown) has set up shop in The Summit (in between Versona Accessories and Kay Jewelers). The Summit location is loaded with Derby essentials from Julie Brown, Tracy Negoshian, Judith March, Hazel, Joy Joy and hats from Jana’s Hat Box, Anita Hat Company and HEADcANDI. Add a touch of sparkle with jewelry from Lulubelle’s and W&M Custom Jewelry. They also have an array of men’s belts and bowties. A good one stop shop.