Derby Day
This marks the 13th year of the Frederica Academy fundraiser that celebrates the Run for the Roses and the event is presented by Sea Island and Beachview Event Rental and Design.
One of the most fun features of the annual Derby Day party is the Hat Parade. Seeing all the women donning big wide-brimmed “garden party” type hats or stunning spectators is almost as exciting as the race itself. A long-established women’s fashion tradition, wearing a hat to the Kentucky Derby is believed to bear good luck. Men have slowly started to take part as well, sporting 1920s style hats. Women’s styles come in all sizes and shapes, and often express creativity and individuality, and are decorated with feathers, flowers, colorful ribbons and bows. Occasionally butterflies and birds also make appearances. Themed hats are a big hit. There’s no doubt, they make a statement!
But for the Derby fashionista, the eternal question is which comes first? The hat or the dress? This is a continued topic of debate. Many advise getting the outfit first so you can design your hat to match the outfit. However, there is another school of thought that holds that the hat is the centerpiece and should be purchased or designed as so, and the outfit should be chosen to complement the hat. In any case, the following tips are suggested when considering your Derby Day fashion:
-If you have a patterned hat, keep the dress design simple.
-If your hat is simple and elegant, keep that trend in your outfit as well for a classy look.
-If you want a funky outfit, keep it consistent, giving the greatest accent to the hat.
-If you have long hair, showcase a ponytail slightly to the side or keep it down on one side to highlight your face.
Now that you know how to choose your attire, join the party on Saturday, May 3, when the gates open at 5:00 p.m. After you are greeted by this year’s event co-chairs Gayle and Park Brady and Dana and Patrick Parker, collect your mint julep and go place your wagers at the betting window. For more “friendly competition,” put your bids on fantastic silent auction items, or purchase raffle tickets for a Vespa while you wait for the simulcast of the 140th annual Kentucky Derby at 6:00 p.m. There will be plentiful Southern fare to satisfy your appetite. Soul Gravy will be playing before the race and will wrap up the fun with a post-race band party after the eagerly-anticipated live auction concludes. The live auction always includes spectacular travel and sports packages and unique opportunities. When bidding, remember that Derby Day is Frederica Academy’s signature fundraiser and the proceeds support every aspect of student life, playing a critical role in delivering the school’s mission to enrich each student’s mind, body and spirit. “The race lasts two minutes. Your support impacts a lifetime of learning.”
For tickets, visit fredericaacademy.org/DerbyDay
