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The Godfather… Defining DERBY STYLE The Derby may be centered on a choice as well. “They provide a lot of pizazz of Kentucky PREMIUM horse race, but one could easily argue that in a smaller framework,” Moore says. “It’s DENIM for many, the best part is the fashion. And no all about standing out and looking great in Derby look is complete without an iconic hat Denim once thequintessential stuff to top it was off. For that pièce de for weekends and casual résistance, those in the know turn to milliner Fridays. today, And a for good reason— ChristineBut A. Moore. great-fitting jeans featured milliner Moore was thepair firstofofficial with superb construction in Kentucky Derby history, and her work has and contemporary styling adorned many famous heads, including those is as much a wardrobe of Kate Upton, Mary J. Blige, Katy Perry and cornerstone as So a navy suit.would we ask for Jennifer Lopez. who else Enter AG. This Los Angelesinsight on what will be on the heads of the based denimDerby-goers company offers most stylish this year? historically high-quality, Moore says sophisticated silhouettes are long-lasting garments on-trend for 2020. Look for pillbox hats and produces them worn toward the frontinofanthe head, putting a environmentally modern twist on afriendly 1950s classic. Hatinators way—AG uses just .3 frame percent are a hot hybrid. They the face like of thebut water that a on typical a hat sit higher the head like a denim manufacturer fascinator. They have auses shallow crown and per day. So, does allows AG gals to have a the brim liftswhat up, which stand for? Atlanta Georgia? better view of the race and move more easily Attorney General? Avantthrough the crowd. It’s this type of practical Garde? Andy Garcia? Nope, a popular thinking that makes fascinators the brand is named after the Italian fashion designer and reputed godfather of premium denim—Adriano
Goldschmied. Come into Rodes to try on AG’s latest styles, and we think you’ll agree they feel Absolutely Great.
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those photos while being practical about wearing a hat all day.” The reigning queen of Derby headwear is still the Southern belle silhouette, but with some modern updates. Women are wearing more medium brims to the shoulder. Like in fashion, coral is a huge color trend for Derby hats in 2020. “For the last two to three years, we’ve seen a strong pink trend,” says Moore. “This year, we’re seeing corals, oranges and reds as well as deep purples and jewel tones.” Moore says one surprisingly popular look in the South this year is gray hats with a strong accent color. Moore says that while her brand and Rodes both pull customers from around the country—and around the world—the Kentucky Derby is all about Louisville style. “Louisville style means anything goes,” says Moore. “Your look is whatever you want it to be!”
Meet ELEANOR LAVIN At Rodes, it is a true point of pride that we keep multiple generations in style. It is equally important to have all those generations represented on our staff. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Eleanor Lavin. She may have started with us as an intern, but her savvy and passion for fashion make her a quickly rising upand-comer in our industry. What do you feel is your biggest contribution to Rodes? Rodes is starting to introduce a more contemporary style aimed toward the younger eye, so it is great to be able to voice my opinion and give them insight on girls in their 20s at this moment. What did you learn from working at Rodes? How important it is to listen to and get to know your customers. Everyone at Rodes values the relationships formed with their clients. By establishing genuine relationships with returning customers, you can really tailor what you pull to what works for each person. If you had a crystal ball, where do you see fashion going in the next year? I think leather all year long is going to happen, fringe is back and pastels are always popular in spring. The last few years, rigid denim has been on the rise so I think we will be seeing less skinny jeans and more boyfriend/
relaxed straight-leg fits. Who is your favorite designer? I can’t narrow it down to one but I am currently loving Retrofete, IRO, Isabel Marant, LoveShackFancy and Zadig & Voltaire. Favorite trends? In the warmer months, I love puffy-sleeved tops, girly ruffles and bright silk midi skirts. Oversized blazers are super cool right now too. What do you think every wardrobe should have? I think everyone should have perfectly fitted white jeans, a go-to leather top, a simple bodysuit to pair with jeans or skirts and a black jumpsuit you can style multiple ways. My motto is once you have plenty of basics, you can completely change an outfit with the right accessories. Your one piece of style advice is … Just because it zips, doesn’t mean it fits. When you learn how to dress your body type, I believe you can pull off anything. And don’t be afraid to wear things that your friends wouldn’t. At the end of the day, fashion is all about you and how you want to express yourself at the moment.
