On the first weekend in May for the 150th time the mint juleps will be flowing for one of America’s most historic sporting events: the Kentucky Derby, where horse racing meets high fashion in a whirlwind of extravagant hats and dapper suits.

Shades of pink are popular on Kentucky Oaks day. (Eclipse Sportswire)

The Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve kicks off the most sought after trifecta in sports, the Triple Crown. This year's Derby promises to be a spectacle of style, blending tradition with contemporary flair according to some of horse racing’s biggest fashion influencers. From the iconic Twin Spires to vibrant infield festivities, Churchill Downs is set to be a runway of couture and class for the 2024 event.

Christine A. Moore is owner and designer at Christine A Moore Millinery, whose work can be found at “CamHats.” She brings years of fashion and millinery experience to racetrack. Moore annually predicts and aces what each Triple Crown season’s trends will be, and 2024 is no different.

Moore said her passion began when she learned no other sport offered a luxurious lifestyle along with posh fashion, and she outlined how to create your Derby outfit. First, she expressed how important it is to, “Be you! Do what you want!” She also she stated the importance of wearing pink on Kentucky Oaks Friday in support of women and breast cancer awareness.

As everyone knows weather can play a huge factor as some recent Kentucky Derbys have been quite sloppy due to rainfall, but Moore has a solution for that! She created multiple hats out of feathers and others out of silk that keep the fascinator trim sealed and safe in the slop. Camhats is always up for a challenge when creating hats, fascinators, and men’s attire to include the silks of a client’s favorite contender. Moore has a true passion for creating custom pieces and incorporating the horse owner's colors and personality.

Moore has attended many of Triple Crown races and spent countless summers in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. She believes attire should coordinate according to your seat or ticket location, as there is a lack of space in some areas where large hats can really obstruct the view. Other areas might not accommodate heels unless you are a true mudder.

Here are some Derby Dos and Don’ts for 2024:

Check the weather and plan accordingly. (Eclipse Sportswire)

CHECK THE WEATHER! Do not assume it will be warm sunny day!

The Infield: Known as the younger crowd party area, but don’t let that deter you from showing off your inner personality. This terrain will be tough to navigate with heels or wedges, so aim for a dressy sandal, sneaker, or loafer. Headwear encouraged!

General Admission or Walking Tickets: This area is filled with the gleaming pastels of the annual Vineyard Vines Derby collection, hats of all shapes and sizes, and men daring to step out of their comfort zone. The fedora is still going strong in men’s racing fashion, and influencers predict there will be a higher number of matching couples and men in flamboyant colors this 2024 season. Everyone should be aware of their footwear and go with something fashionable yet comfortable in these ticket areas.

Outside Private Boxes: These luxury areas allow for a bit more drama. However, it is important to coordinate with those in your box, since two large hats can create a really BIG problem in 4x4 seat private box. Everyone is encouraged to dress photo-ready in these areas, and fashion insiders predict patterns, florals, and midi dresses for women.

Inside Private areas/Turf Club/Millionaires Row: Embellish your true personality, be different — this is an area where weather and walking are not a factor. Make heads turn and cameras flash. Designer shoes, dresses, suits and more are expected in this area. Brights colors and crazy patterns accompanied by a custom headpiece from Camhats would suffice. Dress like you're going to meet Tom Brady … because you might.

 Spare no expense or effort on your look for this milestone 150^th Kentucky Derby celebration. Reach out to your local millinery to find your perfect fascinator or create a custom design. Milliners say it is normal to buy your hat first, then perfect the outfit.    

So, saddle up for a day of equestrian elegance and fashion finesse at the most prestigious horse race of the year. Cross your fingers for a fast, firm, and beautiful 150th Kentucky Derby.