Southern lifestyle blogger Stephanie Ziajka shows how to make your own DIY Kentucky Derby hat in today's post on Diary of a Debutante!

What do birds, cocktails, pinwheels and stuffed animals have in common? All make an appearance at the Kentucky Derby horse races.

Don't get us wrong, we're totally into all things Kentucky Derby — but for us, the event is really more about the hats than anything else. Sure, the races are exciting and the traditional southern foods that go along with the event are amazing, however the fashion that comes with the Derby is fabulous with a capital "F." If you need proof, just look at these hats. Originally published May 2015. Updated May 2017.

If a world-class horse racing event is not intriguing enough, what about a spring fashion show where everyone is bringing their A-game with all kinds of extravagant dresses, vibrant hues 🌸, and statement hats? 👒

Even if you don't know anything about horse racing, you're probably aware the that the Kentucky Derby is known for crazy hats. It's pretty much the one day each year that Americans rival British royalty (including a new princess) with their wacky…

While the actual derby race itself might last only a fleeting two minutes, this time honored event (the first Derby was held in 1875) is celebrated by fans for weeks both before and after, with fabulous events, parties, trays of mint juleps, and of course the ubiquitous glamorous hats. Sadly unable to attend the race in person (it's on my bucket list), I thought I'd pay homage to this festive event with some fun Derby inspired DIY's here at home. Mint Julep Granita While I found countless…

crazy headdress | LPnius: The most strange hats!

Dressing for the Kentucky Derby is not just an everyday style choice, its a tradition within the events culture.

Derby Hats 101: Tutorial An easy step-by-step tutorial for a fabulous hat for your Kentucky Derby Party! pinmethis.com