The CPSS Kappa Derby

THIS EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE RAIN OR SHINE!

Welcome to the Inaugural 2023 Kappa Derby!

The College Park Sandy Spring (M) Alumni (E) of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. (The Blueprint Chapter) has created an experience, and we’re cordially inviting everyone to join us on May 6th at The Hennessy Creek Event Center in Brandywine, MD!

As a Special Guest at The Kappa Derby; you’ll experience great music all day, with 3 DJs playing the best music to keep you moving! Then dress for success and enter the competitions for Best Dressed for the Gentlemen and Best Hat/Fascinator for the Ladies! In addition, there will be food and beverage options available from your local favorite, KitchenCray! A silent auction for Art pieces, A outdoor cigar lounge and of course, real-time viewing of the most exciting two minutes in sports! The Kentucky Derby LIVE from Churchill Downs!!

So Ladies, grab your best Hat and beautiful dress and Gentlemen, sport your fly bow ties and Fedora, and come have an amazing time at the CPSS Kappa Derby!

Kappa Derby Day Party Attire

[The following information is excerpted from https://www.kentuckyderby.com/party]

Part Southern tradition, part spectacle, the Kentucky Derby hat parade is much of what makes “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” one of the greatest people-watching events in the world! From the fantastic to the sublime, there are no rules or limits when it comes to choosing your Derby hat.

Like attendees at the official Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, Ky., wearing a hat to the CPSS Nupes Kappa Derby Day Party is believed to bear good luck! The long-established fashion was started by the women; however, over the last few years, many men have taken part in the tradition as well. Wearing a hat is much like getting into costume, you might be pleasantly surprised to see what type of character you become. From the fantastic to the sublime, there are no rules or limits.

Her Derby Style: Dress or Hat? Which Comes First?

Some will say that you absolutely get the outfit first. Then you design your hat to go with the outfit. (The argument here is that it's easier to custom design a hat than to "make" an outfit to go with a hat!)

Then there are those who say that you must definitely purchase, create or design your hat before picking out the outfit.

Most often in this case, matching the dress (or outfit) to your hat involves personal preference, however keep a few things in mind in getting dressed:

• If your hat is having a pattern party, keep the dress design simple.
• If the hat is simple and elegant, keep the outfit simple also for a classy look.
• If you want a funky outfit, keep it consistent and accent the hat most of all!
• If you have long hair, showcase a ponytail slightly to the side or keep it down to one side to highlight the color on your face.

Hat or Fascinator?

A more recent trend in Kentucky Derby headwear is the fascinator. Smaller than a traditional hat and just as stylish, this piece of headwear has become more popular among Kentucky Derby attendees over recent years. Recently popularized by Kate Middleton, these chic, headpieces are made from a woven disc topped with feathers and netting and secured to your head via a comb or headband. They can be simpler to wear than a hat, and won't give you hat-hair!

Our Derby Day Party is a "garden event," and casual is key. Ladies, emphasize your Derby hat with a colorful sundress or business-casual attire. Simple accessories and fashionable shoes make the perfect compliment.

His Derby Style

The Kentucky Derby provides a splendid excuse for men to get just as dressed up and decked out as the ladies! The modern Derby man possesses an unparalleled color palette. Sun-drenched, tropical colors in bold stripes or busy plaid and bright pastels steal the limelight. Although, if you want a more polished look, a classic navy or pinstripe blazer is always in style. But remember, gentlemen: The secret to looking great is confidence. Whatever you wear, wear it proud!

Our Derby Day Party is a "garden event," and casual is key. You’ll want to be fashionable but casual. Slacks and a button-down shirt with tie is acceptable attire. Show your Derby spirit and break out some vibrant spring colors.

From fantastic hats and colorful spring dresses to dashing bow ties and seersucker suits, Derby’s display of American style and tradition simply doesn’t exist anywhere else. So whether you’re coming to the track or attending a Derby party, it’s time to start thinking about your Derby outfit because the 148th year of iconic style is right around the corner!