The 2024 Breeders’ Cup odds by TwinSpires is one of the most lucrative events on the horse racing calendar, with superstar equines from across the globe travelling to North America to compete.
This year’s event looks set to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. However, it will also be one of the most fashionable, with huge numbers set to pass through the gates at Del Mar to watch the action in-person. While the horses on track will be the stars of the show, fashion will be a close second, meaning that those attending will be beginning to assemble their outfits for the day at the California track already.
But, what are some of the key trends that fashion fans should consider before their trip to the course in November?
Ladies Attire
Horse racing is exceptionally popular with female visitors, as it gives the perfect excuse to go shopping and pick out a new outfit for a day out. Therefore, the Breeders’ Cup will be a hugely popular day out in California this year for women. When it comes to an outfit for the day, many will look to build their style around their desired piece of headwear.
The culture of the event encourages visitors to express themselves with headwear, meaning whether it be a full brim, tall crown, or medium sized hat, all will be welcome. Dresses and skirts will be a popular option among female fans, with many considering the brighter to be the better. Colours are always vibrant at a race day in the United States, and the Breeders’ Cup is no different. Therefore, shades of pink, yellow, or blue are always a popular choice.
However, it could be worth remembering a light jacket for later in the afternoon, as temperatures could dip in the evening in California. Another important note that many experienced female race days will be aware of is comfortable footwear.
While high heels are a preferred choice for many to start the day, this doesn’t stop the vast majority of fans bringing in sandals or flats to wear as they day goes on, as you will likely need to be on your feet for over five hours while the racing is taking place.
Gentlemen Attire
Fashion at the Breeders’ Cup isn’t only for the women, as male visitors are also encouraged to showcase their creativity when it comes to their outfits for the day at the track. A common theme in recent editions of the event is the use of a bow tie to stand out from the crowd, with many opting to follow this trend with various different colours collaborated to complete their style for the day.
Saturday at the Breeders’ Cup is always the big day of the meet, meaning that those keen on fashion often go bigger and smarter with their choices. Therefore, pocket squares are often used to add more flare to their final outfit. Meanwhile, hats aren’t just for the female visitors either, with fedoras a common trend for male visitors.
In truth, while flat caps are most popular at UK and Irish tracks, fedoras are a go-to for many visitors to some of the biggest events on the U.S. schedule, including the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and the Breeders’ Cup.
While the Saturday is traditionally considered to be the more fashionable day on track, Friday has a more relaxed feel. Therefore, dress pants and an overcoat is often the preferred style for many, before the creativity juices get flowing for the Saturday look for when the brightest lights are shining for the biggest equine stars in the world.
Key Items For Male & Female Visitors
Once outfits have been prepared, it will be time to consider the essential items that all male and female visitors should take to the track for the day at Del Mar. Right at the top of the list should be sunscreen, which is essential given the high temperatures expected at Del Mar this year while the sun is out. Keeping your skin protected and away from the risk of being sunburnt is essential in order to enhance your experience at the Breeders’ Cup.
Sunglasses are also a commonly packed item for the day at the racing. Not only will they complete your outfit for the day at the racing, but they will also help to ensure that you can see the action on the track should the sun be in your eyes from the opposite side of the course.
Furthermore, experienced visitors to the track will understand the importance of bringing a charging battery for your mobile device. This is essential for those that are looking to make bets on their mobile devices, as it will remove the risk of your phone dying before you have the chance to make your wagers on the biggest races of the day.
Tina Hudson is the voice behind Fashion Ticky, a fashion blog she started featuring the latest trends in fashion and beauty. With her finger on the pulse of what’s hot each season, Tina shares outfit ideas, makeup tutorials, and styling tips to help her devoted readers develop their own fabulous sense of fashion. When she’s not blogging, you can find this savvy stylist hunting for vintage treasures and snapping Instagram-worthy travel pics with her French bulldog in tow.