Most Fashionable Outfits During Kentucky Derby 2023

The Kentucky Derby is not just a horse race, it's a fashion event. Every year, guests show up in their most stylish ensembles, from pastel dresses to statement hats.

Basically, people that lucky enough to attend the Derby are more focused on what to wear instead of choosing the horse to bet on.

That’s why the Kentucky Derby also features a red carpet where celebrities can show off their creations. This is one of the rare sporting events that, besides attracting betting enthusiasts according to TwinSpires, is also a fashion runway. This year's Derby, held on May 6th at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, was no exception. Check here the best outfits on the 2023 Kentucky Derby.

Mark Ingram

Considering that he is an NFL-free agent, he probably has more time to spend designing his outfit for Derby Day just to make a fashion statement.

The NFL star managed to put together an incredible outfit that is perfect for the Kentucky Derby. He turned up with a pink textured suit, white shirt, and white hat.

So, what makes this outfit great?

Well, for starters pink is always a good choice for the Kentucky Derby, but you always need something to highlight the outfit. Fortunately, going with sneakers and a hat with matching colors made Ingram’s outfit stand out.

Marcus Ericsson

When we talk about Sweden, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? – Probably IKEA, right?

Well, thanks to the power of sports, Swedes are now being recognized for their impeccable style.

While Henrik Lundqvist dominates the Stanley Cup playoff coverage, IndyCar and former Formula 1 driver Marcus Ericsson has stolen the stage at Churchill Downs.

Ericsson's royal blue suit, complete with a snazzy pattern, caught everyone's attention. He paired the suit with a classic white shirt and a bowtie, which added some extra flair to the outfit.

Let’s be honest, it’s a bit striking for the Kentucky Derby where neutral and soft colors dominate, but fashion is about being bold.

Despite always having a helmet on due to his profession, Ericsson has great hair that completes the look. It seems like there's something in the Swedish water that gives them both athletic talent and style.

Carly Pearce

Carly Pearce is a country music singer and songwriter that made a shockingly good fashion statement at the Kentucky Derby.

She turned up with a blue colored dress, where the skirt is covered with blue flowers and a matching headpiece.

This is what the Derby is all about. It’s fun, brightly colored, and symbolizes freshness.

J.D. Shelburne

Here we have another country singer that made a bold appearance at the Kentucky Derby. Not many people even consider black-colored outfits for Derby Day, but J.D. Shelburne managed to pull it off.

His outfit was saved by his white jacket that featured a scarf covered with roses and some Kentucky Derby messages.

It was striking in a positive way.

Drake London

Here we have another NFL rookie star, but what’s surprising is that most of the athletes from the NFL that attended the Kentucky Derby actually had great outfits. This is surprising just because you wouldn’t expect athletes from one of the most violent sports in the world to actually value fashion.

Even though his outfit wasn’t too bold or unique, it is still great for the glamour of the Kentucky Derby. He wore a bright blue patterned suit with a classic white shirt.

He probably could have spiced things up a bit by incorporating some pink, but give him time. He’ll definitely make a bold appearance next year.

Josh Allen

Staying on the subject of NFL stars, we have Josh Allen, the Buffalo Bills quarterback, which picked quite an interesting color for his suit.

Even though his name is followed with a lot of controversy and drama due to rumors that he is breaking up with his longtime girlfriend, Allen managed to keep his spirits up and shake the red carpet on Derby Day.

He turned up on the Kentucky Derby with a mint-color 3-piece custom suit, that wasn’t too flamboyant but still classy and fun enough for the big event.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Olivia Poglianich          

Content Strategist

Olivia Poglianich is a nomadic brand strategist and copywriter in the ski and snowboard space who has worked with brands such as Visa, Disney and Grey Goose. Her writing has taken her all over the world, from a Serbian music festival to a Malaysian art and culture event. Olivia is a graduate of Cornell University and is often writing or reading about travel, hospitality, the start-up ecosystem or career coaching. Her latest interests are at the intersection of web3 and communal living, both on and offline.