Three plus size Derby outfits for horse races and themed parties.

Plus Size Derby Outfits

Ask Alexa

I know I’ve been talking about starting an “Ask Alexa” segment for awhile…

But like most things, I procrastinated.

So finally, here is my first attempt!

I receive a lot of reader’s fashion questions via email.  So I chose this one from Laura:

Hi Alexa,

I’ve been invited to a pre-Derby party. Apparently people are going to wear long floral dresses and hats and fascinator‘s, even though the party is at night and indoors. Go figure!

I’m usually preppy/classic dresser, but I’m a little lost on what to do with this. I think your coastal grandmother vibe is more my speed than a long bright floral, so if you have any suggestions of what to wear, I’d appreciate it.

A lot of my friends are petite-size 0 or 2- and say they’ll just wear one of their lily shifts. Lily doesn’t make a shift for me! 🙂 Thanks for your advice.

Best regards,
Laura

Have a question?  Submit it to alexa (at) alexawebb.com

Triple Crown Races

In case you’ve never heard of the Triple Crown, it’s three thoroughbred horse races including: the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes .

For those of us who live in horseracing country, it’s a thing. 

It’s all about traditions, being extra, day-drinking “official” cocktails, and oh yeah, horse races.

And even if you’re not headed to the infield, themed parties are also a thing.

And with things come fashions.

Triple Crown Fashion 

What does one wear to the Churchill Downs?  Or to a Derby party?

The short answer: a cute classy dress and a “derby hat” or fascinator.

While each race has it’s own take on fashion, you can’t go wrong sticking to the dress and over-the-top hat/fascinator combo.

If you think you might be too cute cutesy or have too many flowers on your hat, that just means you’re doing it right.

Again, it’s all about being extra.

Big hats, big earrings, floral prints, bright colors, and 

Basically, imagine if Lily Pulitzer and a turn-of-the-century Queen’s milliner had a baby.

And that baby spit up on you.

That’s the vibe.  Lol.

As for shoes, go with low block heeled sandals, low wedges, and even flats.

Outfit 1 Details

This first look features a plus size lavender tulip hem sundress with spaghetti straps.

For more coverage, add a lightweight cream or beige wrap like this one in a silk blend.

The accessories are what make this dress a “Derby” outfit.

A coral fascinator steals the show.

But add some statement earrings in lavender for the full effect.

A lady-like rattan bag add some more color with coral details.

And the pièce de résistance are these pom pom low heeled sandals from Kate Spade.

Love them!

Plus Size Derby Outfits 1

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Outfit 2 Details

This next outfit idea features a Barbie-pink midi dress with flutter sleeves.

This dress is made of Swiss-dot organza and it’s got pockets, y’all!

Sticking with the “formula” I added a pink and baby blue fascinator.

Oversized sunnies and some gold statement earrings give this look a “rich b!tch” feeling.

A straw clutch embellished with crystal adds some more glamour.

And the block heeled sandals in gold with caning detail are a favorite.  So chic!

Plus Size Derby Outfits 2

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Outfit 3 Details

This last outfit comes in the quintessential preppy palette: baby pink and grass green.

An adorable pink eyelet midi dress with sleeves offers a little more coverage.

Top it with a pink and green fascinator and large crystal earrings in the same colors.

An adorable caned bag with bamboo handle completes the “Lily” vibe.

But, my favorite pieces are the block heeled sandals in a pink and green print.  Adorbs!

Plus Size Derby Outfits 3

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