While the Kentucky Derby is all about the thrilling horse races, there’s another thrilling aspect that steals the spotlight: the extravagant Derby hats! Each year, attendees flock to the iconic Churchill Downs, eager to see which horse will emerge victorious. At the same time, they uphold the cherished tradition of sporting flamboyant headpieces. Even if you can’t make it to the Downs, you can still join in on the fun by creating your own Derby hat at home.
Creating a Derby hat is more involved than you might think. According to renowned milliner Sarah J. Bell, whose designs have been sported by stars like Ariana Grande and Blake Lively, crafting these stunning hats can take anywhere from mere hours to several weeks. However, don’t stress—your DIY version doesn’t need to match the expertise of a professional. With a bit of creativity and some resourcefulness, anyone can whip up a delightful hat for their at-home Derby celebration. In fact, there’s a surprising demand for DIY Kentucky Derby hat tips, with nearly 1,000 searches each month, even though the event occurs just once a year!
So, grab a refreshing mint julep and let’s get started on crafting your show-stopping Derby hat!
Step 1: Find the Right Hat
It may seem obvious, but your first task is to locate a suitable hat—after all, you can’t have a Derby hat without a base! Seek out a wide-brimmed hat for a truly classic look; the larger the brim, the more room you have for decorations. Alternatively, you might choose a fascinator, although this style is more common on Oaks Day, which precedes the Derby.
You have several places to find your hat. Consider ordering a sunhat online from retailers like Amazon, or visit the gardening section of big box stores like Target or Walmart. Discount stores such as T.J. Maxx and Burlington Coat Factory often have hidden treasures. Craft stores like Michael’s also typically stock hat bases leading up to Derby season.
Step 2: Choose Your Design
When it comes to your hat’s design, the possibilities are endless! If you’re unsure where to start, browse Pinterest or YouTube for inspiration. Many tutorials can help guide you, or at least ignite your creativity. Keep your overall outfit in mind as you select a design, as Derby fashion tends to be very cohesive and coordinated.
Step 3: Gather Your Decorating Supplies
Now comes the exciting part—decorating your hat! There are three primary categories of embellishments typically seen on Derby hats: flowers, feathers, and netting. Feel free to mix and match! Most hats begin with flowers as the central focus, then expand outward.
If you opt for feathers, consider manipulating their shape to fit your vision. A neat trick is to use your fingernail to break the spine of the feather, allowing it to curl. If you’re looking for a show-stopping effect, feathers can be a bit pricey but truly elevate your design.
Netting is another popular choice, with options like Russian netting, which is loose and woven in varying widths, or crinoline (often referred to as “crin”), a firmer fabric that can be shaped with a bit more effort.
Of course, feel free to get creative! If you love sparkle, add some sequins; if you’re feeling artistic, paint a unique design; or if you want to make a bold statement, incorporate themed figurines into your decor. Visit your local craft store to stock up on supplies, and be ready to unleash your creativity.
Step 4: Assemble Your Hat
A good strategy for assembling your hat is to begin with the focal point and work outward. Try to arrange your decorations at an angle to avoid a flat appearance. If you’re not satisfied with your placement, a quick blast from a blow dryer can soften the glue, allowing you to reposition items as needed.
Most importantly, enjoy the process! Crafting your Derby hat is a fun activity, especially when shared with friends and a pitcher of mint juleps.
Fascinator Option for the Kentucky Derby
If you’re leaning towards a fascinator for your Derby celebration, you can still create something eye-catching. Check out this popular YouTube video that demonstrates how to make a chic fascinator in just minutes using a plastic lid, fabric, and mesh.
DIY Kentucky Derby Hats for Kids
Kids love getting creative, so why not involve them in the hat-making process? Just keep the hot glue gun out of reach or supervise that part. Let them enjoy decorating with googly eyes and pipe cleaners, easily found at craft stores. Feathers and mini tiaras can also add a whimsical touch to their creations.
In summary, whether you’re attending the Derby in person or celebrating at home, crafting your own Kentucky Derby hat can be a delightful and engaging experience. Gather your supplies, let your imagination run wild, and prepare to impress everyone with your unique Derby-day style! For more tips and ideas, check out this helpful blog post, and for family vacation ideas, see this great resource on family vacations.