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Nothing says Spring Styling for a modern gentleman like The Kentucky Derby. It provides a no holds barred excuse for men to get dressed up and decked out in their finest colors and patterns. Atlanta hosts several Derby Day events during the first weekend of May such as the Alpha Derby Day, Derby Day at Chastain Horse Park, and Madison-Morgan Conservancy Derby Day 2017 to name a few. The modern gentleman doesn’t need an excuse to tap into his style chest and shock the world. The modern Derby man takes this to another level with his vast color palette. Sun-drenched, tropical colors in bold stripes or busy plaid and bright pastels are among his arsenal. The traditional gent will hover around a more polished, classic look with the classic navy, khaki or seersucker blazer, which is always in style.
Pants
A gentleman’s pants can always be used as a statement piece of his wardrobe. I find that the pants are a great place for the Derby gent to start. Look for vibrate colors such as Red Coral, Offshore Green, Kent Blue, Banana yellow or white are great. Any one of these colors paired with the right shirt and blazer will make a statement.
Shirts
The right dress shirt or polo in a complimentary color is always a winner. If you can find a gingham or stripe shirt that works with you color pallet, go for it. If you are just uncertain about what to choose, keep it simple and go with a solid.
Jacket
Your jacket is what will bring everything together. There are many options out there, but you can never go wrong with the classic navy or khaki blazer. If you want to turn a few heads, try wearing a pattern jacket such as stripes, paisley, or large gingham. Your jacket button choice (2 button or 3 button) is totally up to you, but I recommend picking a jacket that has side vents for a more classic look.
Bow Ties & Things
I can be heard saying, “Every man is not a bow tie man.” Well, on Derby Day, every man needs to try and be a bow tie man! Bow ties can be found in multiple patterns, fabrics, and sizes. Below is a guide that you can use to help with your selection:
As the unofficial stylist for the Metro Atlanta Derby Day, CLIFFORD FRANKLIN offers an assortment of Derby-themed bow ties that will make every man look dapper and distinguished.
As far as the other things, keep your socks funky, your pocket square simple, and your lapel pin or carnation on the left side.
Shoes
Your shoe game has to be one point. Ladies like for their gentleman to be put together from head to toe. When it comes to your shoe selection, you have several options to choose from:
If you choose to wear loafers, forget the socks.
Hats
Men's Derby hats are generally solid in color and inspired by the style from the 1920s. To complete your Derby look, top it off with a fedora, flatcap or bowler. There are several different types of fedoras. Your style… your choice.
Now you are ready to throw back some bourbon, smoke a cigar, and have a good time. The most important thing about your Derby outfit for men is to be confident and comfortable. It’s not what you wear, it’s how you wear it.