The Preakness Stakes, a prestigious horse race, will take place on May 16 at Laurel Park. Fashion is key, with bright and colorful outfits expected despite a limited crowd of 4,800.
Key points
Preakness Stakes will be held on May 16, 2023
Event takes place at Laurel Park, not Pimlico Race Course
Crowd limited to 4,800 attendees
Fashion is a significant aspect of the event
Live coverage starts at 1 p.m. ET
Mentioned in this story
Laurel ParkPimlico Race Course
Preakness Stakes
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Just like the Kentucky Derby, fashion statements are a large part of the Preakness tradition.
Here's what to know about how to dress for the prestigious horse race that will be held Saturday, May 16 (with live coverage beginning at 1 p.m. ET onPeacockand will continue on NBC and Peacock at 4 p.m.):
Though slightly less formal than the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness showcases bright and vibrant colors, emphasizing pastels with black highlights (to pay homage to the Black-Eyed Susan signature cocktail)
Of course, there'll also be a wide selection of bold and clever hats just like the Derby.
Among the popular choices: wide-brim fedora (power blue, yellow and coral are popular options), Panama (popular for May with its light colors and breathable style), Boater Hat and the Trilby.
Horse Racing: Preakness
Horse Racing: Preakness
What to wear to the Preakness Stakes
Well, that's really up to you!
But in the interest of being helpful, we tried asking the CoPilot AI app for some tips. Here's what was suggested (please direct all complaints to Microsoft):
Dresses
Floral sundresses: Most popular because they fit a garden party and are perfect for spring racing. Styles are midi or knee-length with lightweight cotton or linen and soft florals. "This is the safest, most universally correct choice."
Pastel dresses: A classic race-day look with bluish pink, lavender, powder blue and soft yellow (a nod to the Black-Eyed Susan cocktail). "Clean, elegant, and photogenic."
Midi dresses: Fitted or flowy wrap dresses, A-line, or slip silhouettes. "A current modern classic that works from the grandstands to the suites."
Daytime cocktail dresses: Structured with a solid color or subtle pattern and a hem just above or below the knee. "Best for clubhouse sections, suites and corporate areas."
Statement dresses: Bold floral and geometric prints with unique cuts (asymmetrical, puff sleeves) accentuated by a standout hat. "Great if you want that āDerby-adjacentā fashion moment (but donāt overdo it)."
Horse Racing: 148th Preakness
Horse Racing: 148th Preakness
Suits
Classic Southern: Navy or light gray suit with a white dress shirt, pastel tie or bow tie and brown leather loafers or oxfords. "Safe, timeless, and always looks sharp."
Spring light and airy: Tan, beige, or cream suit, pale blue or pink shirt and floral or patterned tie. "Perfect for warm weather and daytime elegance."
Seersucker and summer texture: Seersucker suit (blue with white stripes), open collar or bow tie and loafers with socks. "Signature horse-race styleāplayful but polished.
Modern statement suit: Pastels (mint, lavender, sky blue), bold plaid or windowpane patterns, and contrasting shirt and tie. "Great if you want a fashion-forward look."
Elevated casual (if you're skipping the suit): Blazer and chinos, patterned sport coat and a crisp button-down polo. "Works well for infield or less formal areas." (Note: There is no fan infield access for the Preakness this year.)
Horse Racing: Preakness
Horse Racing: Preakness
General tips:
Lean into pastels and spring colors
Mix one bold element (hat OR suitānot both overpowering)
The track will have a one-year run as the Preakness home with a limited capacity of under 5,000 (that includes no infield access, so there will be less opportunity for zany fans interested in testing the boundaries of fashion).
According to the trackās website, Pimlico lists its dress code as "casual attire. No cut-offs or tank tops in the dining areas."
Horse Racing: Preakness
Horse Racing: Preakness
Is there a dress code for general admission vs premium seating?
Maybe there aren't set rules for premium seating, but upping your fashion game is highly recommended for the Preakness, which has a strong cultural dress standard.
Blazers, suits and dresses aren't required, but dressing as if you're attending a stylish spring outdoor party is a must. And don't forget a snazzy hat.
How to Watch the 2026 Preakness
The 151st Preakness Stakes will be held on Saturday, May 16 at 4 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, with coverage beginning on Peacock and NBCSN at 1 p.m. ET.
NBC Sports' coverage from Laurel Park will begin with the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes on Friday, May 15, at 4:30 p.m. ET on Peacock and NBCSN.