DEL MAR – The 86th summer meet at Del Mar kicked off on Friday, July 18. The crowd came dressed to impress, showcasing stylish outfits and fabulous hats.
Singer-songwriter Joey Pearson opened the races with an amazing rendition of the national anthem.
A popular fashion trend this year was black and white outfits, with many couples choosing to coordinate their looks. Sue LoGuercio and Mac Marray stood out in matching red and white outfits. LoGuercio wore a dramatic red rose fascinator by London milliner Pearls and Swine.
Polka dots were a major trend, both large and small. Many racegoers stood out in stylish black and white polka dots, including Kathryn Gang and Danielle M. Rainey.
Denise Hug looked stunning in a turquoise Picture Hat from boutique Finnia, perfectly matching her dress. Aly Rishel wore a beautiful hat by House of Macgregor while Kathie Rishel chose a design by Arturo Rios.
Tangerine and orange were also a favorite color among racegoers this year. Armen Hovannesian turned heads in an orange suit topped with a straw fedora.
One of the biggest influences this year was Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour, inspiring many to wear cowboy hats. Jay Bat rocked the trend in a hat from American Hat Co.
As always, the 31st annual Opening Day Hats Contest was a fan favorite. The year’s theme was Monet-Ballet. Lili Martindale of Del Mar won the “Best Fascinator” category and was the Grand Prize winner for her Monet-inspired flower creation, which she complemented with a matching floral dress.
Courtney Day from Oceanside won first place in the “Best Flowers” category with an outfit called Rosey Gold, made with real flowers. Nani Richards of Chula Vista took first place for “Most Glamorous” with her entry titled Soul to Soul. Amy Brooker of Vista won “Best Racing.” A seven-year breast cancer survivor, she named her entry Icing on the Cake.
The Del Mar racing season runs through Sept. 7. Don’t miss the prestigious Pacific Classic on Saturday, Aug. 30. For more information, visit dmtc.com.
UPCOMING EVENTS
July 31-Aug 3 – San Diego Swim Week: This swimsuit and resort wear fashion show takes place at 3794 John J Montgomery Drive. For more information, visit sandiegoswimweek.com.
Saturday, Aug. 2 – Haute with Heart Fashion Show 2025 presented by St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center. The theme this year is “London Calling.” The event begins at 10 a.m. at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. For more information, visit stmsc.org.
Friday, Aug. 8 – POSH La Plaza by Fashion Week San Diego begins at 4 p.m. at 7863 and 7877 Girard Ave., La Jolla. For tickets, visit http://bit.ly/4fajQnf.
Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned couture milliner based in Southern California. Learn more about the hat designer, teacher and podcaster at dianacavagnaro.com.
