The Kentucky Derby has always been a blend of sport and style. The 137th running this Saturday, May 7 will be no exception.
Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark, Jr. established the Louisville Jockey Club in the late 19th century to support the development of racing facilities that would rival the world-class caliber of the derbies in Europe.
In 1875, his vision came to fruition when the inaugural Kentucky Derby ran in front of a crowd of 10,000.
Today, 150,000 equestrian enthusiasts pack the stands at Churchill Downs -- dressed to the nines, of course.
If you can't make it to the event, you can still host a party to watch and celebrate the extraordinary run for the roses.
Serving the traditional southern refreshments is essential. The classic Mint Julep has been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century.
I picked out some of my favorite ways to bring the look, feel, and taste of Churchill Downs to your home.
1 Mint Juleps are traditionally served in small silver cups. (marthastewart.com)
2 Here's a delicious twist on the classic, a Blackberry-Mint Julep (marthastewart.com)
3 A southern specialty, Pimento Cheese Spread (marthastewart.com)
4 Beautiful julep cups can hold more than drinks. Arrange them on a table with flowers for a Derby centerpiece. (ross-simons.com)
5 You'll need a fabulous bucket to hold the crushed ice for your juleps. (Martha Stewart Collection, macys.com)
6 Wouldn't these make fun invites for a Derby party? (documentsanddesigns.com)
7 This table is has been designed with a horse's bridle in mind. (ralphlauren.com)
8 Add an equestrian touch to your desk or hand these tiny boxes out as party favors. (jaysonhomeandgarden.com)
9 This vintage Fornasetti Ice Bucket is adorned with horse ribbons -- so fun! (liveauctioneers.com)
10 Inspired by a horse blanket, this would be so chic draped over your sofa for the event. (usa.hermes.com)
11 This flatware has a decidedly equestrian feel. Vintage Hermes Attelage Flatware (le-sanctuaire.com)
12 This Thomas Paul thoroughbred horse pillow can work with your decor anytime of year. (velocityartanddesign.com)
13 Perfect for holding cutlery or straws. (usa.hermes.com)
14 Who knows? These coat hooks could bring you luck long after the Derby has ended. (smartpakequine.com)
15 I love the unfinished look of this horse print. (ballarddesigns.com)
16 The chicest bottle opener to have on race day. (barneys.com)
17 Keep a note pad near by so that guests can write down their picks for the race. (iomoi.com)
18 Another great table piece to serve hors d'oeuvres on. (usa.hermes.com)
19 A stunning coffee table book. Horse by Kelly Klein (barnesandnoble.com)
20 A doorknocker that any horse lover would die for. (bygones.net)
21 Made of glossy white resin, this horse head is quirky wall hanging. (zgallerie.com)
22 After the race, why not have a game of horseshoes? (hableconstruction.com)
23 These Spisani bookends are so chic. (barneys.com)
24 If you can't have the real thing, consider this almost life-size equine -- complete with lamp. (moooi.com)
25 Cork a bottle of wine on derby day with this stopper. (sprouthome.stores.yahoo.net)
26 This throw would be a great stand in for a tablecloth at a derby party. (velocityartanddesign.com)
27 Mix up your mint juleps with these stirrers. (maggiesofmadisonstore.com)
28 What a chic purse compact. (papertrailrhinebeck.com)
29 These napkin rings look like they've just been pounded out by the blacksmith. (vivre.com)
30 What a sleek accent piece. (vivre.com)
31 Any wine would look stunning in this decanter. (vivre.com)
Kentucky Derby Party Recipes
Kevin Sharkey 
From: watches | 5/16/11 at 1:01 pm
Hey there! Cool post! But this site is still loading slowly.