Almost 150 years ago, the Kentucky Derby began and it will continue its legacy this weekend in Louisville, Kentucky.
The Kentucky Derby is an annual horse race that many attend in order to bet on their preferred horse in hopes they are crowned the Derby winner. The Derby is different from many sporting events because of the formal attire, especially the unique hats.
As stated on the Kentucky Derby website: "Wearing a hat to the Kentucky Derby is believed to bear good luck! The long-established fashion was started by the women, however, over the last few years, many men have taken part in the tradition as well."
"Generally speaking, women wear wide-brimmed, 'Southern Belle' inspired Kentucky Derby hats. The hats can be decorated with flowers, feathers, bows and ribbons of any color to express creativity and individuality," the site continued.
Newsweek takes a look back at some of the celebrity fashion displayed at the Kentucky Derby from years past.
Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner
Kim Kardashian along with her mother, Kris Jenner, attended the 135th Kentucky Derby. The mother and daughter duo wear white dresses and hats to match their outfits.
Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip
On May 5, 2007, Queen Elizabeth and her husband, Prince Philip attended the race. Prince Phillip wore a suit while Queen Elizabeth wore a green button-up jacket and a green hat with a bright pink top and now.
Gabrielle Union
Gabrielle Union was spotted on the red carpet of the 134th Annual Kentucky Derby wearing a blue dress, black heels and a black hat.
Tom Brady
Football star, Tom Brady isn't a stranger to the Kentucky Derby as he has been to multiple events. Pictured above, Brady attends the 137th Derby wearing a hat, sunglasses and a black and white plaid jacket.
Zoe Saldana
Avatar and Guardians of the Galaxy actress Zoe Saldana were spotted at the 133rd annual Kentucky Derby on May 7, 2007 wearing a white dress and a periwinkle-colored hat.
Joey Fatone
Former *NSYNC member Joey Fatone has been to many Kentucky Derbys and has recently posted to social media that he will be attending this year's sporting event.
He shared a video on Instagram with the caption "Derby weekend !!" while at a restaurant with his daughter.
"It's my 20th year, I think, coming to the Kentucky Derby," he said.
Kentucky Derby coverage begins Saturday, May 7 on NBC, NBC Sports and streaming on Peacock.
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Ashley Gale is a Newsweek reporter based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her focus is reporting on trends. She has covered trends, ... Read more
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