Kentucky Derby Style Guide: Merging Fashion and Tradition at Churchill Downs

Kentucky Derby's Fashion Renaissance: Celebrating Creativity and Tradition

Churchill Downs Racetrack takes a significant step in merging fashion with the rich tradition of the Kentucky Derby by launching its third annual Kentucky Derby® Style Guide. This year, the guide is curated by renowned fashion expert Zanna Roberts Rassi, who returns as the guest editor for the fourth consecutive year. Scheduled for the 152nd Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2026, the Style Guide aims to inspire both attendees and fans across the globe by encouraging them to craft their race day outfits. It emphasizes that Derby fashion transcends clothing, positioning it as a platform for creative expression against the lively backdrop of Churchill Downs.

The Style Guide is beautifully illustrated with original artwork from Grayson Reynolds, the designated artist for this year’s Derby. This artistic touch reinforces the concept of fashion as an expressive art form, inviting participants to explore color, texture, and unique inspirations. Rassi highlights that the event's fashion offers attendees a chance to channel their creativity in refreshing and unexpected ways, building an alluring and unique atmosphere at Churchill Downs. The guide does not merely instruct on attire; it presents a narrative that combines the event’s historical significance with contemporary fashion trends.

Further enhancing the guide's appeal is the inclusion of designs by Kentucky Derby milliners, such as Formé Millinery, which adds depth to the Derby's fashion narrative. By recognizing and celebrating the roles of both artists and designers, Churchill Downs underscores the cultural importance of style within the Derby experience. The initiative positions the Kentucky Derby not only as a premier horse racing event but also as a vibrant cultural gathering that welcomes everyone—from track attendees to viewers at home—to participate in this artistic celebration.

In tandem with its fashion-forward initiatives, Churchill Downs continues to elevate the overall Derby experience beyond just racing. By inviting creativity and encouraging personal expression among fans, the racetrack solidifies its place in both the horse racing and fashion industries, linking the two in an innovative way that appeals to a diverse audience.

This fresh approach to embracing fashion and creativity during the Kentucky Derby serves as a gateway for a broader discussion about inclusivity and self-expression within celebrated American traditions. As Churchill Downs prepares for the moments leading up to the 152nd Kentucky Derby, it lays the groundwork for a celebration that honors both its historical lineage and the artistic innovations of today.