Derby Days

Many GW students are taking a break from the books this weekend and donning their Sunday best to head to Charlottesville, Virginia for the annual Foxfields Races. A classic preppy affair, no one really goes for the horses; instead, it's all about the fashion, and well, the libations. But back to the fashion...

"I have absolutely no idea what to wear," Carly Messina said, a sophomore attending the races this weekend. "GW doesn't have tailgates, so no one knows what's appropriate."

Foxfields, and similar races like the Virginia Cup and the Kentucky Derby, are known for being more formal than a typical tailgate. Even the websites suggest a "Sunday Best" attire.

But what exactly does this mean?

Well, this southern girl will tell you!

First, for the gentlemen. Because it is springtime, it is a perfect opportunity to don khakis or seersucker and bright colored Oxford shirts. Patterned ties (and bowties!) are perfect for this occasion. Top it off with some Sperry's and Ray-Bans and you will be prepped out.

"I think I'm going to get a bowtie at Vineyard Vines for the races," senior John Wilson said. "It's probably the only time I can wear one and not get made fun of by my friends!"

Now, for the ladies.

Most women wear sundresses for a day at the races. Occasionally, you'll see some skirts or pants, but for the most part, it's dresses, dresses, dresses. A lot of girls go for Lilly Pulitzer or Vineyard Vines. Both designers offer perfect choices for race day. But no need to spend that much! Any colorful or patterned sundress will be perfect. Old Navy has some great ones right now, as well as Lulu's (available only online), all for amazing prices.

"I tend to choose dresses that are breezy and flowy," Maria Bono said, a senior who has gone to the races for the past three years. "It gets really hot and sticky, so clingy just won't work."

The pièce de résistance of a race day outfit is the hat. There's even a hat contest at the Virginia Cup every year.

"Everyone goes crazy over hats at the races," Bono said. "It's the first thing that everyone notices that day."

There are many companies that offer custom made hats, but you can totally DIY for a fraction of the price.

Buy a plain straw hat  from Walmart or Target, and pick up some embellishments and ribbon at a craft store. Glue gun everything to your heart's desire, and voila! You have the perfect, custom derby hat.

Sip your mint julep, and you're ready to go. And they're off!