In front of the Vineyard Vines truck for a photo op.

Sipping a mint julep next to the track on a beautiful Friday before the 141st Oaks

They’re off!

These guys were sitting near us and I couldn’t resist getting a picture of their crazy fun suits!

Fellow Derby goers (L to R):  Kristin Ware, Amanda Luckett, Amy Wright, Me.

The Kentucky Derby has always been on my bucket list.  I love the idea of watching any sporting event in a huge arena with thousands of people cheering, especially when the event calls for great fashion!  I have never seen so many people dressed up for a sporting event, except maybe at an Ole Miss football game.  While races take place all day Friday and Saturday, the main race on Friday is called The Oaks.  Churchill Downs is decorated in pink, most all the spectators have pink somewhere in their outfit, and pink Vodka drinks called “The Lilly” in honor of the Oaks official flower – the stargazer lily – are served.  The reason for all the pink is, Churchill Downs has partnered with a non-profit organization called Bright Pink, which,  promotes early detection and prevention of breast and ovarian cancer in young women, so everyone is encouraged to wear Pink!

Fashion you see above is as follows (L-R): Kristin, Steinmart: dress, Dress Code: hat, Amanda, Anthropologie: dress, Deep South Pout (located in Starkville): sunhat, Amy, Steinmart: dress and belt, Dress Code: hat, Charming Charlie: necklace, Me, Lilly Pulitzer, dress Steinmart: hat.