Kentucky Oaks: All About Pink

Ladies, we are less than two weeks away from the biggest ladies’ day at the races in the United States. The Kentucky Oaks has grown substantially, not only in attendance but also in popularity and prestige. This is the race day for the girls, which features a sea of pink, that can’t be missed!

Longines is the title partner of the Longines Kentucky Oaks. The first edition of the Kentucky Oaks was run on May 19, 1875. Churchill Downs was known at the time as the Louisville Jockey Club. Founded by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby are the oldest continuously contested sporting events in history, and the only horse races to be held at their original site since inception. Modeled after the British Epsom Oaks, the Longines Kentucky Oaks is among the most popular horse races in U.S. horse racing based upon its high attendance. The race attracts about 100,000 people a year.

However, you have clicked on Fashion at the Races blog, so let’s focus on the style on the day.

If you haven't been to the Longines Kentucky Oaks - you sure are missing out. The most important thing you need to know can be said in one word: PINK!

Oaks day is all about the pink. Pink in your outfit, on the horses, in the drink in your hand ... pink, pink, pink! This definitely is the day to bring that girliness that for some might be hidden deep down, but we know you're able to pull it out just for this particular Friday!

There are so many different ways to rock pink for this race day. You can choose a dainty pink lace dress paired with simple accessories and a great medium brimmed hat.

Not into the all-too feminine look? Choose a fun modern pink print instead. Pair with a standout shoe and cute clutch. This type of outfit would be perfect with a standout fascinator instead of the brimmed piece.

Is all pink too much? Try color blocking! A pink shirt with a bright yellow colored skirt is a great combination. Pink and orange, pink and turquoise, or even pink and green can be great color combinations for the day. You’ll stand out in these combos yet still be feminine and elegant.

If you're looking for a more subtle combination, try pink paired with either white, black, or a nude tone. Bri Mott says, “If you choose the pink and black combination, make sure it’s more on the pink side. Oaks and Derby are all about color and femininity. Save the black heavy outfits for Preakness or Belmont.”

If you want to really step it up fashion-wise and show off a bit to the crowd, do this through your shoes. A fantastic pair of pink shoes is just the extra something to set your outfit apart from the rest. Pink shoes aren’t all over stores and aren’t frequently worn in everyday life. This is the day to purchase and showcase them!

Lastly, finish your outfit off with some great jewelry. Pink bracelets and statement necklaces are a great tie-in to your Oaks outfit. The best tie-in is a great Longines watch. Our favorite for the day is the Longines DolceVita. Gorgeous stainless steel finished with a light pink face ... um, yes please!

Don't forget, Longines will once again select the “Most Elegant Woman” at the Longines Kentucky Oaks Fashion Contest which celebrates elegant style. The winner of the Longines Kentucky Oaks Fashion Contest will also be awarded a Conquest Classic timepiece.

This is enough reason to put plenty of thought into your Oaks outfit!