40 of the Most Outrageous Kentucky Derby Hats of All Time
These people aren't horsing around!
Every year since 1875, the Kentucky Derby has taken place on the first Saturday in May, with two exceptions. The race was postponed in 1945 due to World War II — and things will look a little different this year as well. Because of the novel coronavirus pandemic, the 146th Kentucky Derby has been pushed back to September 5, 2020. So while we all hold our horses until the fall, we're looking back at the most outrageous, over-the-top Derby hats that we could find from past races, worn by the Derby's boldest race-goers.
From papier-mâché horses to a garden's worth of flowers, these caps are nothing if not creative. While some like to keep it simple with a mini fascinator, others embrace the tradition of larger-than-life hats — and the race simply would not be the same without them. So grab your mint julep (or your mint julep cupcakes!) and get excited for the most exciting two minutes in sports with these wild and wacky Kentucky Derby hats — because we all know that the hats are the best part of the experience.
The Mad Hatter
No, that's not a character from Alice and Wonderland — but we have a guess as to where this party goer got her hat inspo for the 2019 Kentucky Derby.
Hair or Hat?
Another stand out from last year's derby is this daring look. Part bun, part hat and paired with leopard print this is certainly wild.
Everything's Coming Up Roses
A simple hat of roses wasn't enough for this 2019 Kentucky Derby-goer, hence the three balls of roses hanging off the sides.
Power Couple
Now that's what I like to call horse power! These two Derby goers put their heads together at the 145th running of the Kentucky Derby.
Less-Than-Mellow Yellow
Yellow rose? Check. Yellow veil? Check. Animal-print hat? Check. This hat from the 2018 Derby was a bright and sunny standout.
Rain or Shine Hat
A little rain didn't spoil the fun for this 2018 Kentucky Derby attendee.
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Butterfly Fascinator
Butterflies in your stomach? Not the case for this 2017 watcher of the Kentucky Derby.
Disco Cherry
Life is just a bowl of cherries! This fun and fruity headpiece was one of the most over-the-top hats at the 2016 race.
Hog Heaven
Maybe she's a Peppa Pig fan?
Rose Garden
One rose wasn't enough for this attendee — she brought the whole garden!
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