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The Kentucky Derby isn't the only big horse racing event that takes place at Churchill Downs the first weekend of May. The Kentucky Oaks, a premiere race for 3-year-old fillies (or female horses), is also held the day before, and is another exciting opportunity for racegoers to show up and show out their outfits.
Like the Derby, the Oaks also has a very specific dress code. Racegoers are encouraged to wear pink in honor of the race's official flower, the stargazer lily, and in support of breast and ovarian cancer. And for some, the stakes are even higher higher off the race track, with the annual Kentucky Oaks Fashion Contest (the best-dressed winner takes home a Longines timepiece).
If you're heading to Louisville for Derby weekend, or planning a celebration at home, now is the time to start your shopping. Ahead, we rounded up some of the prettiest and first-place worthy pink dresses to wear to the Kentucky Oaks this year. Just don't forget your hat or fascinator!
1
Romantic
Markarian Giorgia Off-The-Shoulder Floral Ikat Midi Dress
1
Romantic
Markarian Giorgia Off-The-Shoulder Floral Ikat Midi Dress
Everything about this Markarian dress—from the sweet off-the-shoulder silhouette to the distinctive dropped waist and flouncy skirt to the soft floral design—screams Kentucky Oaks.
2
Ladylike Lace
Florence Strapless Lace Applique Midi Dress
2
Ladylike Lace
Florence Strapless Lace Applique Midi Dress
Between the lace appliqué details and the subtle hint of sequins, this strapless number is lovely as can be.
3
Topped with a Cape
Givenchy Cape-Detailed Satin Midi Dress
3
Topped with a Cape
Givenchy Cape-Detailed Satin Midi Dress
Derby weekend isn't the time to blend in. Bring the drama with a caped dress.
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4
Simple and Understated
Dress the Population Elle Sweetheart Neck Sheath Midi Dress
4
Simple and Understated
Dress the Population Elle Sweetheart Neck Sheath Midi Dress
Sure, this dress is simple, but when paired with a show-stopping fascinator and statement accessories? You'll have a winning Oaks look.
5
Pretty in Plaid
Rosie Assoulin Oh Oh Livia's Seersuckered Plaid Midi-Dress
5
Pretty in Plaid
Rosie Assoulin Oh Oh Livia's Seersuckered Plaid Midi-Dress
A breezy seersuckerd strapless dress featuring a pretty plaid print? It's like Rosie Assoulin designed it just for the Oaks.
6
Elegant Florals
ZIMMERMANN Matchmaker Belted Floral-Print Linen and Silk-Blend Midi Dress
6
Elegant Florals
ZIMMERMANN Matchmaker Belted Floral-Print Linen and Silk-Blend Midi Dress
Florals are always a "do," and this '50s-inspired Zimmermann number is so pretty, you're sure to steal the attention from the fillies on race day.
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7
Ruffles
V. Chapman Lily Ruched & Ruffled Stretch Midi Dress
7
Ruffles
V. Chapman Lily Ruched & Ruffled Stretch Midi Dress
Stretchy ruching offers a comfortable and flattering fit, while the tiered ruffles add an oomph of playfulness to this otherwise sophisticated number.
8
Barbiecore
Dress the Population Tiffany One-Shoulder Midi Dress in Sky
8
Barbiecore
Dress the Population Tiffany One-Shoulder Midi Dress in Sky
Oaks Day is the perfect chance to give Barbiecore for a spin if you haven't already.
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10
Head Turner
Saloni Fleur Midi Dress in Blossom Hidden Dragon
10
Head Turner
Saloni Fleur Midi Dress in Blossom Hidden Dragon
When you want to stand out in a sea of pink dresses, look no further than Saloni's take which features a high collar and draped bodice with a vivid blooms.
11
Prim & Propper
RALPH LAUREN COLLECTION Skielar Wrap-Effect Printed Plissé Silk-Georgette Dress
11
Prim & Propper
RALPH LAUREN COLLECTION Skielar Wrap-Effect Printed Plissé Silk-Georgette Dress
A long sleeve silk dress is the perfect style for the breezy outdoor event.
12
Party on Top, Business on the Bottom
Theia Gia Beaded Shawl-Embellished Dress
12
Party on Top, Business on the Bottom
Theia Gia Beaded Shawl-Embellished Dress
If you want to make maximum impact, might we suggest this hot pink dress finished with a semi-sheer shawl-inspired bodice with beaded blooms? Understated, but you won't go unnoticed.
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13
Statement Maker
Badgley Mischka Floral Sleeveless Dress
13
Statement Maker
Badgley Mischka Floral Sleeveless Dress
This asymmetrical number has all the Hallmarks of a memorable Oaks Day look: an elegant floral print, ruffled skirt, high-low silhouette, and a floral embellishment at the shoulder.
14
Made for Twirling
Self-Portrait Pink Floral Print Tiered Midi Dress
14
Made for Twirling
Self-Portrait Pink Floral Print Tiered Midi Dress
Let your outfit do all the talking with a midi floral dress featuring a flattering sweetheart-neckline and twirl-ready tiered skirt.
15
Race Day to Office
Roland Mouret Bow-Detail Wool and Silk Midi Dress
15
Race Day to Office
Roland Mouret Bow-Detail Wool and Silk Midi Dress
This better-than-your-basic pink dress, featuring subtle shoulder bow, can go from office to Derby weekend without a second thought.
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16
Bold Florals
Hyacinth House Pink Floral One Shoulder Sybil Maxi Dress
16
Bold Florals
Hyacinth House Pink Floral One Shoulder Sybil Maxi Dress
Perfect for the Oaks, seaside sips, and summer weddings, this bold one-shouldered number is a style you'll wear again and again all season long.
17
Polka Dots
Reformation Mattea Silk Dress
17
Polka Dots
Reformation Mattea Silk Dress
Not into florals? Polka dots are always a good idea.
Sophie Dweck
Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more.
