Sometimes it’s good to go back to your roots. When I was a struggling college graduate, I took several jobs at plant nurseries. The manager probably thought I was barely qualified with my degree in music and humanities, but he let me suit up daily in a yellow rain suit and water the fuchsias. Later, I was promoted to planting color pots with annuals. I found the work stimulating and loved the deep, rich, earthy smell of the greenhouse every morning. My mom also worked in a greenhouse and we spent many wonderful hours talking about the newest trends in plants and flowers.

Few events in racing bring together the infield party scene and the high-class fashion set as seamlessly as the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course.