Derby Dresses That Will Make You a Front Runner

Derby outfits verified for the mane event.

18.04.23

By Sophie Smith

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Southern Belles, listen up. Time is fast approaching for a certain annual horse race and if the phrase ‘go big or go home’ is ever relevant, it’s now. Stand out from a sea of racegoers in derby dresses made to catch the attention of everyone but the jockey. Think high quality tailoring, statement prints, and of course, a headpiece or two. Get ready to claim the derby dress of the day award. Saddle up, let’s get into it.

Patterned Derby Dresses

We Nasty Gals opt for dresses for horse races that scream personality. When you’re competing with a crowd of well-dressed racegoers, play the prints card. Our favorites? Swirling marble, eclectic animal print, and hypnotic stripes. Dial down the look ever so slightly with a one-color comfortable block heel (a wise choice for a long day on your feet) and a matching purse.

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Strappy Marble Printed Tie Back Maxi Dress
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Cut Out Printed Midi Dress
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Floral Print Tulle Bandeau Maxi Dress
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Zebra Metallic Cut Out Maxi Dress
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Leopard Metallic Ruffle Strappy Maxi Dress
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Petite Satin Fruit Print Maxi Wrap Dress
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Marble Print Pleated Maxi Plunge Dress
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Petite Satin Marble Print Open Back Maxi Dress
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Floral Derby Dresses

If your chosen headpiece is floral-based, complement the look with a coordinating dress print. Floral dresses and horse race attire are a match made in occasionwear heaven, all the while being seasonally spring-appropriate. Blossom in flattering ditsy florals that are subtle and delicate. Or, make a statement with larger florals that are great for highlighting areas of the body you’d like to accentuate.

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Floral Print Halter Neck Maxi Dress
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Floral Corsage Chiffon Ruffle Halterneck Maxi Dress
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Petite Floral Ruffle Front Maxi Dress
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Satin Floral Print Cut Out Maxi Dress
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Floral Chiffon Ruffle One Shoulder Maxi Dress
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Floral Lace Trim Slip Midaxi Dress
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Marble Satin Print Square Neck Slip Dress
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Bold Floral Print Square Neck Satin Midi Dress
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Formal Midi Derby Dresses

Our vote for the ultimate dress length goes to the midi. Hitting anywhere between below the knee and the calf, a midi dress is long enough to provide a modest and formal feel, while avoiding a restrictive feel. As a rule for derby dresses, we tend to avoid maxi styles which can get in the way of networking at the grandstand or clubhouse. No one wants to be tripping over their dress after they win big, either.

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Plunging V-Neckline Split Midi Dress
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Nasty Gal X Nick Fierro Tattoo Printed Mesh Midi Dress
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Cut Out Scuba Crepe Midi Dress
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Flocked Mesh Cowl Neck Dress
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Metallic Pleated Ruffle Midi Dress
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One Shoulder Split Hem Midi Dress
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Plus Size Floral Pleated Midi Dress
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Satin Column Open Back Midi Dress
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Formal Derby Dresses and Jumpsuits

Another derby outfit option is to go for a classic formal dress, or switch it up a little with a jumpsuit. With wide leg fits, contrasted with strappy accents and low backs, you’re certain to bring the drama. Formal dresses are ultra flattering, with their soft, flowing silhouettes and attention grabbing accents. You can’t go wrong with one of these options!

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Tulle Tie Shoulder V Neck Maxi Dress
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Placement Print Halterneck Wide Leg Jumpsuit
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Satin Lace Up One Shoulder Maxi Dress
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Velvet Floral Cross Halter Wide Leg Jumpsuit
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Ruffle Halter Neck Maxi Dress
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Organza Petal Bandeau Bodycon Dress
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Bold Floral Print Wide Leg Jumpsuit
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Bridal Beaded Wrap Mini Dress
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No matter what you choose to wear this upcoming derby day, or what you choose for any upcoming race days in your area, choose something you’re going to be comfortable in (and something that will look great in all the pics you snap). Wear your derby outfit with confidence, and you’re certain to have a successful day no matter your winnings.

For more occasion content, check out our post on What to Wear to a Summer Wedding.