I've Spent A Lot Of Time At Churchill Downs, And These 10 Fascinators Are Kentucky Derby-Ready

The 150th Kentucky Derby is quickly approaching, and whether you will be at Churchill Downs on May 4 or watching the race from a Derby party, the one thing you’ll need to complete your outfit is a headdress. Choosing between a hat and a fascinator depends on personal preference, as there’s a good mixture of both in the crowd underneath the famous twin spires every year. But if you want something a little smaller and easier to get around in, definitely go with a fascinator.

Growing up in Louisville, my family spent lots of time at Churchill Downs cheering on the races and tending to my grandpa’s own racehorse in the stables on the backside. And this means I’ve seen my fair share of fascinators—and I’ve even made a few of my own! But if you don’t have that kind of time, no worries, because Amazon is actually a great place to get one delivered quickly and cheaply, too. We’ve pulled together several options that come with all the fixings of a great statement Kentucky Derby fascinator that combine great looks with a great price. Keep reading to find your favorite one!

Shop Amazon Fascinator Finds

• Dreshow Flower Fascinator, $9.99 (orig. $11.99)
• Lucky Leaf Fascinator, $14.96 (orig. $19.99) 
• Felizhouse Derby Fascinator, $14.99 (orig. $15.99)
• Babeyond Women’s Derby Fascinator Hat, starting at $32.99
• Babeyond Rose Fascinator Headband, starting at $21.99
• Cizoe Flapper Fascinator, starting at $15.99
• Haojing Women’s Kentucky Derby Fascinator, starting at $16.99
• Zivyes Women’s Fascinator, starting at $14.99
• Saferin Feather Fascinator, starting at $17.99
• Saferin Women’s Kentucky Derby Hat, $19.99 (orig. $22.99)

Dreshow Flower Fascinator

This fascinator comes with both a headband and a clip so you can choose which is more comfortable. With over 7,800 five-star ratings, reviewers say this is a high quality, easy-to-wear option that stays comfortable for the long day ahead watching the races. And comfort is especially important since First Post at Churchill Downs is at 10:30 a.m., but the official Derby race isn’t until after 6 p.m. With 41 different color options all with polka-dotted tulle and feathers, there is destined to be one that matches every dress.

Lucky Leaf Fascinator

Fascinators don’t always have to be dainty, and you’ll often see larger options that still rest to one side of the head, like this one. Reviewers say it is big, but not too big, which is great, since you don’t want to bump into people in line to get a Mint Julep or at the wagering windows. Speaking of wagering, this fascinator from Lucky Leaf is even a favorable price with a 25 percent off discount right now.

Felizhouse Derby Fascinator

This fascinator is currently under $15 and is more of a classic style that looks like a small hat on the side of the head. Colors range from classic shades like white and beige to bolder hues like  fuchsia and a vibrant purple. Each head piece comes with a clip and/or headband, so you can wear it as you like and is most comfortable for you. Reviews note that in addition to being shipped in a box that prevents it from getting crushed in transit, and that it is lightweight and a great value.

Babeyond Women’s Derby Fascinator Hat

If you prefer the look of a hat but still want a fascinator, this Amazon option is the perfect blend of the two. The hat portion is a large, flat brim design made of straw and the fascinator portion features a combination of ribbon flowers, feathers, or butterflies depending on one of the 18 colors you choose. It comes with a headband and a clip, but since it is on the larger side, you may want to ensure it stays on with another clip or two.

Babeyond Rose Fascinator Headband

With a garland of red roses being draped on the winning horse after the race, this rose fascinator is a great option for Kentucky Derby parties. This is also a simpler design and on the smaller size, perfect for those who want something without feathers and tulle typical of a fascinator. Shoppers say that “people thought [the roses] were real,” thanks to the high quality design. Over 100 have been purchased in the past month, and that’s no surprise with the Derby just around the corner.

Cizoe Flapper Fascinator

For a smaller option, this 1920s-inspired fascinator is less than $16 and can be delivered in just two days with a Prime membership. It comes with just a clip (no headband) and is very lightweight, so shoppers say that it stays put in their hair without extra pins. They also love how detailed it is without looking too bulky, either. This small fascinator is available in 29 colors and style variations to fit any Derby dress or outfit.

Haojing Women’s Kentucky Derby Fascinator

At a reasonable price point, a whopping 41 color options, and two-day shipping for Amazon Prime members, this fascinator is large enough to make it a perfect statement piece to your Kentucky Derby outfit. It does only come with a clip, though, so you may need another to ensure it stays securely on your head for the races. Shoppers who have worn and loved it recommend you spend some time fluffing it up, as it arrives flat. 

Zivyes Women’s Fascinator

We love this tulle and feather fascinator for the unique color combinations like pink, blue, and green; black and white; yellow, pink, and blue; and yellow, orange, and purple. These colorways are not ones you’ll see in other fascinators but ones that would match beautifully with colorful or solid-colored dresses and outfits. We also adore the added detail of pearls in the center.

Saferin Feather Fascinator

Fascinators and hats at the Kentucky Derby range from small and modest to large and in charge. If the latter is what you want, then this fascinator is perfect for you. It comes in a few colors, including black, pink, light pink, and green, with a fluffy feather that extends far beyond your head. As a shopper favorite, many share that the fascinator is bold and glamorous and that they receive compliments when wearing it. Keep in mind that this one might also be one you need extra reinforcements for, as it only comes with one clip, but the extra materials may make it a bit harder to secure in your hair.

Saferin Women’s Kentucky Derby Hat

So this one isn’t a fascinator, but it is a solid option if you decide to go with a hat (which comes in handy during unseasonably warm and sunny Derby days). With a 4-inch wide brim, it’ll provide you with enough coverage and protection while the design and materials offer style to match the day. There are over 40 color options with rosettes and/or ruffles, and the price is much lower than many Kentucky Derby hats out there. It’s even adjustable via a drawstring!