For many trackgoers, the important thing is not horseshoes and jockey’s silks but what the spectators are wearing. Fashion is at the forefront for many going to the track each summer. There has been a long tradition of pageantry in the “Sport of Kings” This is due in part, because horse owners were exceedingly wealthy.
Fine fashions were—and still are—associated with wealth. Even during the Victorian Period everyone wanted to look their best for the annual meet. The city was known as “Cupid’s Summer Home” because of the many matches made from the wealthy families who summered in the area. Women were barred from the many gambling establishments but they were welcome at the track.
This continued in the 1940s, a time when women wore hats to church and skirts or dresses on airplanes and dresses (with stockings—no bare legs) to the track. It didn’t matter how much money they had, they just always took great pride in what they wore.
In the early days of the track, women would arrive in the city with Saratoga Trunks full of the latest fashions. It is said that when you saw a collection of these trunks on the docks of New York City, you could be sure they were about to board an overnight steamship for Albany where they would then catch the train for a 3-hour trip to the Spa City.
Hats and high heels continued through the 70s and 80s. Women wore large-brimmed hats with lace and flowers. The trend toward more casual attire started in the 90s. Men continued to wear suits or jackets but women started wearing flat shoes and Capri pants. Hats and brims got smaller but designer handbags proliferated. Modern–day apparel has been inspired by the British Royal Family and the overall look is simpler. It is all about relaxed clothing styles.
Every year, the Sunday after Opening Day in Saratoga has a tradition of the Saratoga Hat Contest! It is one of the highlights of opening weekend and tying in with the annual Hats Off to Saratoga Festival, this popular contest invites track goers to compete for prizes in specific categories with the most creative, shocking, over-the-top hats you have ever seen! The event fittingly usually coincides with the Saratoga hat giveaway day, which is the first giveaway of the season.
