How to Wear the Season’s Biggest Trends to the Del Mar Racetrack

One of our favorite days of summer is Opening Day at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. It kicks off the racing season in style. And no matter where you’re watching from—the Turf Club, Winner’s Circle, or grandstand—your race-day outfit needs to be chic. So why not use it as an opportunity to showcase summer’s biggest trends?

Horse races have always been a classy affair and there’s a very conspicuous air of sophistication and elegance to Opening Day. It may take some skilled styling to combine today’s trends with classic Derby attire, so here’s your cheat sheet on how to pull it off.

Trend: Neon

How to wear it: Neon is pretty attention-getting on its own, so keep all other elements of your outfit simple. We recommend a bright dress with a neutral hat (or fascinator) and heels. If you don’t want to stand out too much, opt for a neon clutch or neon fascinator instead.

Trend: Tie dye

How to wear it: The tie dye trend screams summer, but on its own, it can be a little too casual for the races. If you want to go bright, then wear a shirt tucked into tailored, fitted trousers. For a subtler approach, wear a monochrome tie dye dress and dress it up with neutral heels.

Trend: Animal print

How to wear it: Animal print is big right now, in fact, many fashionistas see it as a new “neutral.” So how do you wear it? On your dress, on your shoes, as an added detail (such as a ribbon) on your derby hat… just don’t go overboard; limit the animal print to one item.

Trend: Feathers

How to wear it: We’ve seen this fun detail pop up in unexpected places. Of course, you can add some feathers to your hat, but also look out for feathers on shoes, handbags, or even skirts.

Trend: Crochet

How to wear it: This trend can look more beach-sand appropriate than grand-stand appropriate if you don’t do it right. There are some great dresses and matching sets that embrace crochet without being too risqué. Finish the look by keeping your accessories sleek and sophisticated.

You can find all these summer trends at Del Mar Plaza! Come visit us before Opening Day and shop our boutiques for your perfect race-day outfit.