Kentucky Derby Winner.

The real competition at Churchill Downs isn’t between the horses, my dear, it’s between the women’s hats.

I recommend this entry for 2009. A big, romantic soufflé, impossible to overlook. People down in the infield will assume you have a thoroughbred in the running; just give them that little wave.

2009 Derby Day Hat (No. 2396), fine Italian straw with ruffled triple brim, decked with lush silk flower and white feather plumes. Wreath of White netting hangs down in double tail in back, a touch of airy movement. Handmade by Marzi milliners in Florence, the world’s best.

Dimensions: 22-1/2” wide max., with 3” high crown, 7” wide flower.

Size: inside sizing band fits most.

Color: (Light Cream) Ivory straw, iridescent Cream flower tinged with Pink, Yellow, and Green.

Fresh From the Gardens of Marzi. Remember the orchid corsage you wore to the prom? This is the sophisticated postgraduate version, and all the more alluring. Handmade from shape-holding cotton-blend flowers, genuine feathers, and silk ribbon; 17” long to the ends of those inquisitive shoots and tendrils.

Orchid Floral Pin (No. 2400) with safety-pin; wear affixed at skirt waist, on sweater or jacket, or as a daring hair ornament.

Color: shades of Pink and Green.