Horse racing is a special sport, especially when we talk about big events like the Breeders’ Cup, where the fashion on the “purple carpet” where all the celebrities flash their incredible looks is often as talked about subject as the winner of the race.
We are currently seeing some big changes in fashion when it comes to horse racing events. Finally, we broke out of that formal and kind of boring look that never allowed guests to have too much creativity.
Even though most guests worry about the types of horse bets, some are also concerned about their style.
Nowadays, big events have some incredible outfits. They are just like the Oscar Awards, where big names from all around the world walk on the purple carpet and a bunch of paparazzi take their photos.
The Intersection of Fashion and Horse Racing
The Breeders’ Cup is more than just a prestigious horse racing event — it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings together high-stakes betting, tradition, and cutting-edge fashion. Guests come not only to celebrate the sport but also to showcase their sartorial prowess.
Over the years, the fashion landscape of horse racing events has evolved, moving away from rigid dress codes and embracing individuality. Hats, a longstanding staple of horse racing style, continue to dominate, but they now come in every imaginable color, shape, and size. Bold patterns, striking accessories, and avant-garde designs are no longer exceptions but the norm.
This brings us to the question, which were the best-dressed guests at the Breeders’ Cup 2024?
Cassandra Johnson and Avery Johnson
The former basketball television commentator, player, and coach, has some good taste, let me tell you that. He and his wife wore matching dark ruby outfits with gold accents. Avery Johnson wore a dark ruby suit with a classic white shirt, and his wife wore a dark ruby cowboy hat, puffy dark red jacket, and golden skirt (which was too short for the races).
Francesca Amiker
Francesca is a highly successful journalist who has won 4 EMMY awards, and her style is incredible.
Horse racing is a sport where fashion requires some bold choices, and that’s exactly what she has done. She wore a classic white dress with long-sleeved white gloves. But the most impressive thing that caught our eye was the striking blue hat. The only way to make this outfit better is to match the hat with the same color bag, but she went for silver.
Elizabeth Banks
The movie star and brand ambassador for the Breeders Cup also wore an incredible black and white floral outfit that was striking. This was a long dress with long sleeves and not too many accessories since it was already vibrant.
Kareem Rosser
Kareem Rosser is an author who always dresses really well, and we can see that he loves fashion and horse racing. His outfit is the definition of minimalism.
Wearing a cream button suit and a white shirt. The only accent on this outfit was the gold buttons on the suit, making it subtle and elegant.
Nathan Cumberbatch
Nathan went down the same path wearing a cream suit, but a bit classier and more formal. He paired cream suits with the same color tie and a white shirt. He also wore a classic brown Oxford shoe.
Richie Sambora
Richie is a big fan of horse racing, especially the Breeders’ Cup as we’ve seen him on many events in the past. Each time, he wears an out-of-the-ordinary outfit, making him very eye-catching.
This time, he wore a kind of rustic denim jacket, black jeans, and a black shirt with a slogan. Being a person who is closely related to the Breeders’ Cup, he was allowed to wear such a casual outfit.
Alex Steward
Here we have another guest who had an incredible outfit but was kind of too casual for an event like the Breeders’ Cup. She wore a two-piece blue floral dress with a layered skirt. In terms of accessories, she only had a simple necklace and a bracelet – no hat!
Carson Krassley
The cowboy entered the room, and this time in a blazer with horse motives. He definitely deserves to be the winner of the “outfit of the day”. Why? Well, he was one of the rare people who added horse elements to his outfit.
He paired that light brown suit with a cowboy hat and wore a white shirt with white pants just to make it pop up even more.
Kinya Claiborne
Kinya definitely stood out with that floral white bouffont dress, with the slightest pink floral additions. She matched the dress with a white hat and white shoes making it pop out even more.
Sasha Pieterse
Lastly, we have an unusual outfit not just for the Breeders’ Cup, but for all horse racing events. Sasha decided to go full black! Black dress, socks, shoes, and even the hat!
It is unique, but that should be the point of these fashion presentations. To go for something out of the ordinary!
Why Fashion Matters at the Breeders’ Cup
Fashion plays a vital role in creating the unique atmosphere of horse racing events. It’s an opportunity for attendees to express themselves, support their favorite designers, and connect with the event’s rich history.
The Breeders’ Cup is particularly special, as it draws high-profile guests from around the world, each eager to leave their mark on the purple carpet.
Moreover, these events serve as a platform for promoting creativity and diversity in fashion. Attendees like Carson Kressley, with his horse-themed blazer, and Sasha Pieterse, with her all-black ensemble, push the boundaries of traditional race-day attire, proving that personal style has a place alongside age-old traditions.
Final Thoughts
The Breeders’ Cup 2024 was a feast for the eyes, not just for thrilling races but also for the jaw-dropping fashion on display. From bold and daring outfits to timeless classics, the event celebrated the intersection of sport and style in the best possible way.
As we look forward to next year’s event, one thing is certain: the Breeders’ Cup will continue to be a stage for innovation, creativity, and the celebration of individuality through fashion. Whether you come for the races or the runway, there’s something for everyone at this iconic event.