When you think of New Orleans you think of great food like crawfish boils and Po’boy sandwiches as well as jazz, the French Quarter, Mardi Gras fashion and, of course, the National Football League’s Saints.  But don’t forget about about horse racing and the Louisiana Derby.

This great event at the Fair Grounds is only 10 minutes from the French Quarter. Incidentally, Thoroughbred racing has been conducted with few interruptions at the site of Fair Grounds since 1853, when a track called Union Course held its first Thoroughbred meet. Talk about a long tradition!

I have spent quite a lot of time in New Orleans and love that city! I love the food, the excitement, the fashion, and of course the racing.

Each racetrack in America has its own flavor and flair that relates to their location, cultural influences, weather, and even colors — and Fair Grounds for Louisiana Derby day does not disappoint.

Many seasoned racing fans will dress in Kentucky Derby styles —  large, southern brims for women and straw fedoras for men —  but there is a large contingent of fans that make their own hat, which is always a fun and long-standing tradition at tracks.

A friend of mine who owned Mission Impazible, the 2010 Louisiana Derby winner, once described Fair Grounds fashion as “cajun style.”  

Fair Grounds fashion is fun and edgy. (CamHats photo)

I was not exactly sure what that meant until I went. Racing fashion at the Louisiana Derby is very eclectic — in a good way — and cajun-style fashion to me means spicy and hot. You will always see the popular colors of purple, green, and gold for Mardi Gras and black and gold for the Saints, plus plenty of the Fleur de Lis designs, which I personally love!

The weather can be hot, so loose-fitting, comfortable, bright dresses and fun, spicy, multi-colored fascinators are always in style. I am a big advocate of dressing up for any race. I love when men wear a suit and a hat … and you will see that for sure. Even the men’s colors can be fun and bright!

So, when attending the Louisiana Derby this year, think fun, hot, spicy colors. Think about a hat for the hot sun and a fascinator if you will be indoors. Don’t be afraid to show off your own personal style! Men, it is not too early to pull out that poplin or linen suit and spruce up the fedora!

Always dress for the races, and I will see you at the track!

Christine Moore, owner of Christine A. Moore Millinery in New York City, is the most celebrated milliner in the history of American horse racing. She is the first-ever featured milliner of the Kentucky Derby and has held that title since 2018. She is the official milliner of America’s Best Racing, the Breeders’ Cup, the Iroquois Steeplechase as well as many other titles. She has been on The TODAY Show live from Churchill Downs and Fox and Friends many times to discuss racing fashion. She attends all the major racing events in America and is an expert on American racing fashion.