These hats showcased bold style and a time‑honored tradition at the 2026 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.
Joe Burrow has become somewhat of a fashion icon. He’s walked in fashion shows, been included in British GQ’s best-dressed list for the 2025 Met Gala and has even graced the cover of magazines.
But when it came to his look for the 152nd Kentucky Derby on May 2, the outfit was deemed “unimpressive” and “underdressed” by social media users (even if his outfit, by definition, fit derby standards).
The Cincinnati Bengals quarterback arrived at the Derby clad in a light pink suit, paired with a gray T-shirt and a maroon-colored fedora. While his outfit wasn’t as eye-catching as some of the looks, social media users didn’t hesitate to criticize Burrow’s choice.
Many social media users had issues with Burrow’s outfit due to the Kentucky Derby’s longstanding dress code, which “encourages guests to wear upscale attire,” according to its website.
The horse race brings out some of the biggest fashion choices, as women who attend are often encouraged to sport large hats, making the accessory the center of their look.
Meanwhile, men typically wear colorful suits or sports coats, often in bold prints, pastels, or preppy plaids. The Derby’s website also states that a fedora or bowler hat “adds a classic Derby touch.”
So, even though Burrow’s outfit was technically on par for the Derby, that didn’t stop the internet from sharing its opinion. Take a look at what social media users said about Burrow’s look.
