Evening KY Derby party clothing question

[kpp80202]

So, I have been going to an annual evening cocktails+dinner+dancing fundraiser for years that has always been black tie, which has made dressing for it easy. Normally, it has a theme, like the Great Gatsby or Mardi Gras, but most people stick with tuxes and little black/red/? dresses. I just got notice that next May's party will be a Kentucky Derby theme. I'm from KY, and wouldn't be adverse to changing things up this year. Women are encouraged to wear hats, etc. I assume I can wear my tux again, but it seems that I wouldn't "match" my wife in a dress with a hat. What suggestions do you have for me? Should I wear a hat of some sort? If so, what with? I'm normally pretty conservative with dress, but could get a little out of my comfort zone for this. Thoughts?

Kevin

 

[wimsey]

How far out of your comfort zone do you want to get? A classic look would be a white (or cream) linen suit, spectator shoes, a white shirt, and a ribbon/string tie. With a white hat.

 

[ter1413]

Thought you said that you are from KY.....
Shouldn't this be easy???

 

[kpp80202]

When I lived in KY, I was too young to go to such parties. Now, the party idea is nostalgic...

What are spectator shoes?