Milliners show off designs at annual Kentucky Derby Museum Hat Show

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) - With just weeks until the 151st Run for the Roses, the Kentucky Derby Museum hosted its annual hat show.

Dozens of applicants from all over the U.S. and Europe applied to secure a spot in the show. Five milliners selected for the 2025 season include:

• Mary Julia Kaiser, Derbyologie Owner
• Ilana Kogan, The Hat Doctor Owner
• Christine A. Moore, Christine A. Moore Millinery Owner
• Jenny Pfanenstiel, Formé Millinery Co. Owner
• Jessica Schickli, Hat Haven Owner

Jessica Schickli made her first appearance in the Hat Fashion Show.

“I try to with my hat making do a modern take on some very traditional styles,” Schickli said. “I wanted to see if I could be at that level and fortunately enough they thought I was good enough.”

Schickli is a second generation milliner, born and raised in Louisville. She took over the business five years ago.

“It’s a wonderful way to feel connected to my mom who passed away a couple of years ago, she was the one that instilled in me the love of creating things,” Schickli said.

She and the show’s four other millines showcased their unique designs, filled with vibrant colors, materials, and styles. A true look book of what you can expect to see at the track for 151st Kentucky Derby.

“I do see the popular boater style being popular this year, so I’ve done several variations of those. It’s a very tailored classic look,” Schickli said.

The crowd oohed and aahed as each design passed by, watching closely, taking pictures and notes. One of them, Aida Brignoni, a self proclaimed hat enthusiast, woke up at 5 a.m. and drove in from Ohio.

“The fashion show, the opportunity to share with people and know where they come from and listen to their stories, it’s very enriching.” Brignoni said.

After the show, attendees were able to meet the milliners, try on some of their pieces and start planning their look.

But like many of us, Brignoni now has her work cut out for her to decide what to wear for this year’s Derby.

“I think it’s gonna be hard to decide, because as you can see so many options and so pretty,” Brignoni said. “It’s hard to decide which one.”

The milliners will have the opportunity to sell their hats and fascinators through the Derby Museum Store.

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