When most people think of Del Mar two images immediately come to mind; horses and headwear. Del Mar is the place to see and be seen in Southern California during the summers. This brings up a challenge, what to wear?
Every year Del Mar opens to a crowd of approximately 40,000
(45,000 in '09 - largest ever) men and women elegantly clad in their finest headwear, high heels, dresses or suit jackets for what will undoubtedly be a fun filled day at the races. The fashion statements don’t end when the last limo exits the parking lot on opening day; all 37-days of the race meet can be seen as an excuse for San Diegans to dress to impress.
Typical race day attire for ladies includes a brightly colored sundress or skirt with matching sandals or heels topped off with a well-coordinated sun hat. However ladies, a word of caution: 4 or more hours in high heels under the blazing sun can become miserable. Consider bringing a pair of flip flops to change in to for the walk to the parking lot at the end of the day.
Gentlemen usually wear nice dress slacks or khakis with a button down, light weight dress shirt and a matching suit jacket if he is planning on enjoying the races from the Turf Club or Directors Room. Gentlemen may also sport the signature Del Mar look of a fedora/straw hat made famous in the 1930s by founder Bing Crosby (center in picture). However, the most important consideration to be made with race day attire should be the desert like climate that is customary in San Diego between the months of July to September. Bright colored, light weight, and airy summarizes the look of Del Mar, but of course don’t forget the fashion staple that completes every race day outfit; the hat.
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