10+ spots to find an iconic Kentucky Derby hat
From local artists to festive boutiques, these 13 places are in style for Derby.
The long-standing tradition of wearing over-the-top hats continues. Whether you’re watching the race at Churchill Downs or from the screen at home, your derby day isn't complete without a festive hat.
Wild Hats
If you want a hat that is sure to stand out from the rest, look no further. Wild Hats makes each of their hats to their customer's order. From slim and chic western-style hats to loud and wild hats decked out with anything from flowers and ribbons to skulls and crossbones, there’s a stylish hat for anyone looking to celebrate with some flare.
Anna’s Additions
A colorful selection of hats for your Derby celebration awaits. The classic derby-style hats are loud and classy, and are sure to impress. Shop in store from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday to grab a hat filled with feathers, flowers, and more.
Forme´ Millinery Hat Shop
Founded by master milliner Jenny Pfanstiel, the Forme´ Millinery Hat Shop is the place to get your next Derby hat. Here you can get a one-of-a-kind hat from the one of the official Milliners of the Kentucky Derby Museum.
The Hat Girls
Use your imagination to design and create custom headwear for any special occasion with a special focus on extravagant, show-stopping hats that are perfect for the Kentucky Derby season. Their wearable art ranges from classic Southern Belle-style Derby hats to stunning, head-turning headpieces from a women-owned business.
Hat Haven
Hat Haven is a 2nd generation, custom millinery hat shop specializing in one-of-a kind headpieces and is one of the featured Milliners for the Kentucky Derby Museum for 2026. For over 30 years, Hat Haven has been making hats and fascinators, including custom hats and fascinators for the Kentucky Derby, weddings, runway, and other events.
The Hat Shoppe Louisville
Your ultimate destination for elegant Derby hats. From classic wide-brimmed styles to whimsical fascinators, The Hat Shoppe offers a curated selection that captures the spirit of the Derby.
Tiffany Woodard Designs
Louisville artist Tiffany Woodard specializes in crafting floral fascinators, which have been featured in Garden & Gun and Tops Louisville magazines. This year, you can find Woodard's fascinators at her pop-up shop inside the Oxmoor Mall.
Mamili 502 & Mad Hatter 502
Founded by Melissa Huff, Mad Hatter 502 is a seasonal boutique specializing in custom hats and fascinators. Their handcrafted designs capture the essence of Derby fashion, making them the perfect choice for race day or any special occasion.
Work the Metal
Your go-to destination for unique Derby hats and accessories. Their exquisite collection includes over 30 different bundle styles and five fabulous feather styles, ranging from bright neons to rich jewel tones and classic neutrals.
That Cute Little Shop
With locations in Louisville and Elizabethtown, That Cute Little Shop is your derby day dream come true. Whether you're looking for the perfect hat, a fabulous frock, or festive decor to host a winning watch party, this one-stop-shop has you covered. From bold fascinators to charming silhouettes, you'll be trackside chic and ready to turn heads faster than a thoroughbred out the gate.
The Hat Doctor
When a move to Louisville for medical school began a love story with the city, Illana Kogan began creating and selling unique Derby hats to friends and family. What began as a fun little business has grown into a flourishing business with one-of-a-kind, handmade, couture Derby hats and fascinators that have been featured in nationwide publications and TV broadcasts and landed the Hat Doctor as one of the featured Milliners for the Kentucky Derby Museum.
Big Day Hat Design
Handmade in Louisville, Big Day Hat Design is not your momma's Derby hat. Louisvillian Veronica Stivers began creating unique fascinators in 2019 for the Kentucky Derby. Each piece is handcrafted and guaranteed to make you stand out in the crowd.
To learn more about the Kentucky Derby and how to experience Louisville during Derby season, check out our Kentucky Derby guide.
RelatedPartners
Jenny Pfanenstiel, Master Milliner and owner of Formé Millinery, is internationally recognized for her award winning craft of hand creating and sculpting hats using the highest quality and rare materials found all…
Mamili offers casual sophisticated women's apparel, jewelry, accessories, select men's and youth apparel, homer accessories and gifts.
Express yourself with Work The Metals's home decor, clothing, accessories, furniture and more. Our ever-changing selection is always sophisticated and smart - and always affordable too!