Few styles are more iconic than the finery donned by the crowds at Churchill Downs. For the last decade, Lili Kobielski has photographed Kentucky Derby spectators for Vogue as if they were models on a runway. Enjoy this close-up look at America's most inimitable sports fashion event!
Twenty horses-120 seconds-150 years-timeless fashion. From the hats in the grandstands to the silks on the track, fashion is as much a part of the Kentucky Derby as the thoroughbreds, the jockeys, and the mint juleps.
Lili Kobielski has been photographing the Kentucky Derby for Vogue for a decade. She aptly captures the vibrant colors, jovial festivities, and, of course, the fantastic headwear of this iconic day in sports. Kentucky Derby Fashion celebrates the spectators of this epic event and illustrates how their creativity and style make the Derby what it is. The passion for the sport is best displayed by the fashion in the grandstands.
With an introduction written by Helmut Lang and contributions from Churchill Downs and the Vogue editorial team, readers get a sense of the Derby's hallowed place in the worlds of fashion and sports.
