Racegoers donned their most glamorous outfits and over-the-top hats on Saturday as they prepared to cheer on the runners and riders at the 145th Kentucky Derby.
Around 150,000 fans and spectators gather every year on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs for the iconic race, dubbed the 'most exciting two minutes in sports'.
Game Winner is the 9-2 favorite for the race after opening Tuesday as the 5-1 second choice behind Omaha Beach, who was scratched because of a breathing problem.
But it seem the fashion stakes may be even higher as a whole host of smartly dressed ladies and gents donned their most exquisite hats, dresses and suits.
Event organizers tell those lucky enough to attend the longest-running sports event in the U.S. that they should keep their dresses 'simple, so it doesn't take away from your hat'.
And it seems the stylish crowd got the memo with thousands pulling out all the stops for some showstopping looks.
Racegoers donned their most glamorous outfits on Saturday for the 145th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs
Around 150,000 spectators gather every year on the first Saturday in May, including this fan who opted for a blue fascinator
Event organizers tell those lucky enough to attend the longest-running sports event in the U.S. that they should keep their dresses 'simple, so it doesn't take away from your hat' and a whole host of smartly dressed ladies and gents donned their most exquisite hats, dresses and suits Saturday for the main event
M. Lewis Clark, who established the horse race in the U.S., and his wife thought the event would be more appealing if it they incorporated fashion into it and it appears they were right with the race more popular than ever
Annie Bannister (right) and Katie Weber pose for a selfie photo in the infield in their derby hats
Men are also encouraged to dress up for the special occasion and this gentleman, left, opted for a patriotic hat and beard. Miss Kentucky 2018, Katie Bouchard also attended the 145th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, right
The crowd pulled out all the stops for some showstopping looks, including this racegoer who went a for a floral headpiece
Organizers add: 'Both female and male attendees pull out all of the stops when selecting their Kentucky Derby and Oaks apparel.
'When selecting your dress for the Kentucky Derby the recommended practice is to keep it simple, so it doesn't take away from your hat. You can also let the color and excitement of spring inspire you and select a dress full of color, or floral or equine patterns.
'Since the hat is the focus of Derby fashion, there's not much need for large, statement jewelry. Let your hat be the attention grabber as your primary accessory and keep the jewelry simple.
'An equally popular trend for in Kentucky Derby and Oaks headwear is the fascinator.'
Guests are also warned to bring a pair of flat shoes as the 'historic grounds can be tricky to maneuver and the day is long'.
Most attendees are wearing wide-brimmed, 'Southern Belle' inspired Kentucky Derby hats and wearing one to the race is believed to bear good luck.
But it was not just the ladies who pulled out all the stops. Organizers who suggested 'gents should turn to sun drenched pants in vibrant colors like Key Lime, Ocean, Bermuda Pink, and Citron' would have been thrilled to see the colorful outfits on show.
These two attendees heeded organizers advice and packed flat shoes for the long day at the historic grounds
Love was in the air for this couple who used the iconic race, dubbed the 'most exciting two minutes in sports' to get engaged
This couple both got the hat memo as they attend the longest-running sports event in the United States
Wearing a hat to the race is believed to bear good luck and most will wear wide-brimmed, 'Southern Belle' inspired hats
Game Winner is the 9-2 favorite for the race after opening Tuesday as the 5-1 second choice behind Omaha Beach, who was scratched because of a breathing problem
The Kentucky Derby, was first held in 1875 at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, and the tradition of wearing such elaborate, lavish
