A new horse racing season kicked off Wednesday at Del Mar Racetrack in San Diego, the U.S. state of California. Those who turned out for the first race of the season showcased a multitude of fancy hats.
Many of the about 40,000 men and women showed off their unique style — large and small, fanciful and beautiful, at the 23rd annual Opening Hats Day.
Many of the headgear were designed and handmade by themselves. The final winners for the hat contest could win up to 5,000 U.S. dollars in prizes.
Using her hands to hold up an outrageous hat handmade by herself, Christina Stutz, a two-time participant of the well-known hat contest, stood out from the crowd with the seven-pound, full-sized mannequin she called Bella on her head.
“For us in San Diego, it really means a lot about tradition and keeping traditions alive here, like hat day forever. It’s an amazing event. Everybody gotta come,” Stutz said.
Stutz took home two titles: the grand prize winner and winner of the “Most Outrageous” category.
The hat contest, which is known as Del Mar’s yearly parade of flowery, feathery and fanciful headpieces, has been a racetrack tradition since 1995, attracting friends and families, new comers and previous winners.
Debra Mauzy-Melitz, a participant who joined the event with her sister, said, “It’s a tradition for us. We’ve done this for 10 to 15 years.”
“My sister and I designed the hats together. So It’s a sisterly event for us. And we tried to pick a theme. Last year we did the San Diego Zoo 100 years and you can see what we do this year,” said Debra, who wore a wide brimmed purple hat, topped with a floral cup and adorned with two horses.
In the early 1900s, horse racing was the sport of the elite and affluent. Wearing an iconic hat became an opportunity to showcase their wealth and status through couture fashion. Hats continue to be a traditional for derbys.Read more at:mermaid prom dresses | backless evening dresses
