After a weekend that sparked a fashion firestorm across social media, the Kentucky Derby is changing how it talks about style at the track. The move follows the buzz surrounding influencer Gabriela Moura, whose outfit at the Kentucky Oaks on May 2 turned heads- and not entirely for the reasons she may have hoped.
Moura, who attended the event with fellow influencer Alix Earle, drew sharp criticism for her revealing look. Her dress, which many online labeled “inappropriate,” set off a wave of online debate. In a video response, Moura addressed the backlash.
“Girls with big boobs, there’s no way to hide it, like honestly,” she said. “I just can’t do anything about the boobs.” Her candid comments sparked both support and criticism, adding fuel to a conversation that had already gone viral.
New Direction For Derby Fashion
The Kentucky Derby has always leaned into fashion flair, but never had hard rules, until now. On its official website, Churchill Downs now outlines what’s considered acceptable attire for various areas of the venue. While the statement still encourages guests to “show up and show out,” it now includes new guidelines emphasizing “elegance, sophistication, and respect for the tradition of the event.”
For the premium seating areas like the Derby Room, Millionaires Row, and Turf Club, the policy explicitly bars attire deemed “overly revealing,” including sheer fabrics without proper lining and excessively low-cut outfits.
“There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to Derby dressing, in part because what you wear has much to do with where you plan to spend the day.” the new policy states, “ But the same rule goes for everyone in attendance: dress to impress.”
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The update comes after mounting pressure on Derby organizers to clarify expectations. Social media had a field day with Moura’s look, with opinions split between those defending her choice and others calling it inappropriate for a traditional Southern event. Despite the drama, the Derby didn’t single her out by name, instead emphasizing a broader commitment to preserving the event’s cultural and fashion standards.
With the new rules now public, all eyes are on how the Derby community will respond next year. And as for Moura? Whether she returns in 2026 or not, she’s already become part of the conversation reshaping what Derby fashion means today.
