Getting Ready for the Races: Where to Shop to Look Your Best (Hat Included)

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Woman_at_Races_298789484

It’s that time of year again—the horses are off to the races at the Del Mar Racetrack! People from all over the U.S. are here for the excitement, dressed festively from head to toe. Del Mar Village has your complete guide to attending the races in style.

Start With the Hat

A race day outfit isn’t complete without a cool fedora, wide-brim hat, or fabulous fascinator at the top of your head. Hats are and always have been ubiquitous in American horseracing. Many of the derbies and races we know today were modeled after European racing events, like the Royal Ascot, which required daytime-formal dress for men and hats for women. When racing really took hold in America, it was a sport for the elite who used the opportunity to flaunt their wealth—and what better way than with a double take-worthy hat?Today’s races are a lot more inclusive, but the tradition of donning statement hats has stuck. In fact, modern races are often a time for people to showcase their style and personality—whether it be fashion-forward or eccentric—and many races, like those at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club have contests to celebrate the history of the hat in horseracing.So, you obviously need a great hat. And the place to get your hat for the Del Mar Races is none other than Del Mar Hat Company located in Del Mar Village. You can choose from an incredible array of fascinators, headbands, and Derby hats, or opt for something custom-made by acclaimed local designer Carol Bader herself.

Follow With the Rest of Your Outfit

Once you have the perfect hat, the rest of your outfit needs to match. The dress code at Del Mar isn’t much different from the famed Kentucky Derby, but Del Mar Thoroughbred Club has a unique mix of Southern elegance and Southern California easiness.You can stay in Del Mar Village and get everything else you need to complete your outfit. The Village offers many options for both men and women to make a statement, or play a simple and effortless backdrop to an ornate headpiece.

  • Sundancer Boutique has a wide selection of chic outfit pieces and breezy sundresses—perfect for San Diego’s beachside vibe and sunny weather.

  • Joni And Susi offers some cool and simple pieces to subtly complement a woman’s hat and dress.

  • Garys Studio provides men with an incredible collection of polished and super stylish suits (think unique patterns and eye-catching colors).

  • Men who want to walk on the bold side can shop at Frustrated Cowboy, which specializes in Western-wear and has everything from boots to button-downs to bolo ties.

  • There’s always the tried and trusted Banana Republic, which has smart outfits for both men and women.

If you plan on watching the races from the Turf Club, note that the invite-only space requires a tad more formality than the other areas of the stands. Men must wear a dress shirt or sport jacket at all times—denim, athletic shoes, shorts, and t-shirts are not permitted. Women are also required to up the ante by wearing suits, daytime dresses, or sundresses; again, denim, sneakers, and shorts are not allowed.Whether it’s your first time at the track or you’re a perennial contender in the Opening Day Hat Contest, the Del Mar Races offer the perfect opportunity to have a little fun with what you wear for the day. No matter how you decide to top your head or what you choose to don, stop by Del Mar Village for all of your race day attire.