The Del Mar racing season returned for its 87th summer featuring a packed crowd and a patriotic red, white, and blue theme.
Opening Day, which is considered one of the largest fashion shows of the year, brought out guests dressed to impress as they vied for attention in their show-stopping hats. Over-the-top fascinators, wide-brim hats, and elegant couture Derby hats filled the track.
The theme for the 32nd annual Del Mar Opening Day Hat Contest was “Hats Off to America.” Chun-Mae Hauschka of Laguna Niguel won both the grand prize and the Best Flower category. Hauschka decorated her hat with a medallion reading “Happy Birthday America,” honoring the country’s 250th anniversary, along with matching shoes and sunglasses.
The other winners were Aimee Fuller for Most Glamorous, Julie Karcsay for Best Racing theme, and Kelly Brown for Best Fascinator.
In addition to the patriotic hat styles, polka dots emerged as a major trend, appearing on dresses, hats, and ties.
Among the standouts were Dorothy Zizzo and Emma Zuckerman, both wearing designs by renowned London milliner Philip Treacy. Aimee Fuller was the milliner of choice for Meilani Castillo and Kate Martin. Darah Roslyn wore a Diana Cavagnaro Millinery, while Margo Schwab topped off her Brioni dress with a Diana Cavagnaro Chapeau. Jenya Schneider wore an elegant fascinator from Lena Trotshko Atelier & Boutique. Dr. Tina TiQ wore a dress and hat designed by fashion designer Nolan Dean.
Many couples opted to wear matching themed outfits, such as Mark Velarde and Aisha Lopez appearing in Mary Poppins-themed outfits. John Hill and Lynette Relking wore matching ensemble inspired by the bearded iris. Relking’s beautiful dress was entirely hand-painted.
The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s summer racing season continues through Sept. 7. More information can be found at dmtc.com.
Upcoming event
Saturday, Aug. 15 – The 48th annual Haute with Heart fashion show presented by St. Madeleine Sophie at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront in Downtown. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit hautewithheart.org.
