2012 Kentucky Derby and 2012 Kentucky Oaks Hats and Dresses - Vineyard Vines, and tips for a full figured, curvy lady

To start us off, here is some official advice
on how to dress for the 
2012 Kentucky Derby and 2012 Kentucky Oaks:
http://www.kentuckyderby.com/content/derby-attire
The official theme seems to be 
"the finest in spring fashion,"
which can include  
pastel-colored suits and frilly dresses.

Vineyard Vines is the 
"Official Style of the Kentucky Derby."
Here is a selection of 
Kentucky Derby 2012 dresses  
from Vineyard Vines:
http://www.vineyardvines.com/womens-kentucky-derby-collection/Womens-Kentucky-Derby,default,sc.html

Another interesting trend
that might have a big impact in 2012
is pairing a white dress
with a large, colorful Kentucky Derby hat.
See examples here:
http://stylenews.peoplestylewatch.com/2012/04/30/kim-kardashian-kentucky-derby-hats/

Leslie from Lousiville, KY 

shows off her Kentucky Derby hats 

with dresses from Dress Barn 

and offers advice and insight 

especially for ladies with fuller figures 

in her Youtube video,  

'My Kentucky Derby Style Look Book.'

Watch the video here: http://youtu.be/825Ypr1YNiw

Her best tip for me was 

to keep springtime in mind when shopping 

for a Kentucky Derby dress and hat. 

Leslie recommends knee length dresses 

and low, comfortable heels. 

In this video, Leslie describes 

making Kentucky Derby hats - 

http://youtu.be/oeL1YtmZ9Lk

I love her accent and agree with her 

that the Derby is not the time to be subtle.

Flamboyant hats are my weakness.

I feel so sassy and smile all the time!

Have you ever worn a flamboyant hat?