How to Get Dapper for the Derby

By Marni Elyse Katz
May 2, 2011

Kentucky Derby

The 136th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 1, 2010 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

With all the hoopla surrounding the royal wedding, fanciful hats, a Kentucky Derby style staple, are garnering more attention than ever. But over-the-top Derby hats not the only accoutrement associated with the Kentucky Derby horse race. There’s the mint julep, for one. And, of course, the horses.

Like any big event, the Kentucky Derby, which takes place each year on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky (and has been in existence since 1875), spawns its fair share of horse racing memorabilia. Like much vintage ephemera, the Kentucky Derby ticket stubs, stamps, and vintage programs are collectible as frame-worthy artworks. Other Kentucky Derby memorabilia, like thoroughbred Beanie Babies are pure kitsch, but no less lovable.

Kentucky Derby

Horse Racing Fans look on during the 2010 Kentucky Derby. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

As Kentucky Derby fans anticipate the big race, they've turned to eBay online auctions to buy and sell horse racing memorabilia. In a recent 30-day period (3/26-4/24) listings for "Kentucky Derby" are up 37 percent and sales are up 176 percent compared to the prior period. We sourced a selection of fashion for today, as well as tokens from Derby days gone by from the 6,600-plus eBay items for sale on the online marketplace.

Secretariat Ty Beanie Baby

(buy it now price, $4.90)

Grown-ups shan’t have all the fun. Gift the little ones with a Secretariat Beanie baby. He’s the1973 Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown Winner, the only horse to make the covers of Newsweek, Sports Illustrated, and Time magazines—and the subject of a recent film.
1946 Kentucky Derby Ticket Stub

(current bid, $26)

A collection of ticket stubs is great for decoupage, or even displayed as a set within a shadow box. This one is from the year the horse Assault prevailed in the Derby, and then won the Triple Crown later that year.
Silver Plated Mint Julep Cup

(buy it now price, $56.81)

Enjoy the drink of the Derby in proper mint julep cups. Later, use for fresh flowers; a cluster makes a gorgeous low centerpiece.
Kentucky Derby Parade to the Post Oil Painting

(starting bid, $80)

This charming original oil painting was done in 1958 by a New York City artist named Penelope Grill who still lives and works in SoHo today.
Black Emerald Tea Hat

(buy it now price, $92.99)

A flamboyant hat is a must for all ladies attending the Derby, or even a Derby party where you'll be watching the race on TV. You could probably get away with this plumed green one on St. Patrick’s Day too.
Hermes Silk Scarf Ledoux Equestrian

Our love of Paris, silk, and all things equestrian led us right to this Hermes scarf.
1940 Kentucky Derby Winner Gallahadion Horse Photo

(buy it now price, $6.99)

This horse is one handsome fella. Antique photos make sophisticated, inexpensive artwork. This would work especially well in a children’s bedroom.
Kentucky Derby Postage Stamps

(starting bid, $7.50)

This is a lot of 50 actual unused stamps issued by the U.S. Postal Service on May 4, 1974, commemorating the 100th running of the Kentucky Derby. Perfect for using on Kentucky Derby party invites.
1953 Magazine Advertisement Kentucky Tavern Bourbon Whiskey Mint Julep

(buy it now price, $12.49)

Frame this original 1950s magazine advertisement for Kentucky Tavern bourbon, along with two others, as a trio of mood-setting, inexpensive artwork over a bar.
1960s Kentucky Derby Embroidered Patch

(buy it now price, $8.95)

Kids love to collect patches. This cheerful vintage example would be cute sewed onto a child’s sweatshirt, cap, or backpack.
John Meyer Kentucky Derby Jacket

(buy it now price, $14.99)

This chartreuse conversation piece is adorned with an embroidered and appliquéd design depicting three fashionable 1920s ladies watching the race.
Men’s Straw Fedora

(buy it now price, $22.99)

While you revel in an oversize work of art for the head, don’t forget that men need cover too. This straw fedora is lightweight and as suitable for the dandy as it is for the regular guy.
Men’s Check Bowtie

(buy it now price, $6.64)

If you’ve indeed got a dapper dude to accompany you, treat him to a sweet check bowtie. It will pair nicely with the straw fedora.