Complete Outfit Breakdown
Dylan Dreyer selected five distinct ensembles for the 2026 Kentucky Derby. Friday morning featured a sleeveless green midi dress from Lela Rose with an A-line silhouette. For Friday afternoon, she changed into a bold Eliza J dress showcasing pink and green floral prints. Saturday morning's look was another Eliza J dress covered entirely in yellow flowers. Saturday afternoon required two outfit changes: first, a white Camilla dress with spaghetti straps and floral details described as a showstopper; second, a strapless light sage green Eliza J dress featuring a lace overlay throughout.
Custom Hats and Accessories
Dreyer worked with milliner Christine A. Moore to design five custom hats coordinating with each dress. The hats featured striking pink feather accents and oversized bows. Each hat was designed directly from the dress specifications. After the event, Dreyer signed all five hats, which were donated to charity events or displayed in the Kentucky Derby Museum. For footwear, she wore nude Nine West heels during on-air appearances but switched to purple fur-lined Crocs between segments for comfort during her 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. broadcast schedule.
Selection Process and Brand Choices
Dreyer prioritizes affordable, quality brands including Eliza J, Vince Camuto, and Lela Rose rather than expensive designer labels. She gravitates toward brands with girly designs and reasonable price points. For the 2026 event, she navigated the fashion trend of heavy florals and appliqués while avoiding Easter-dress aesthetics. Her oldest son Calvin served as her official style critic, with Dreyer confirming she would not wear any outfit he disapproved of, trusting his fashion judgment over her own instincts.
On-Camera vs. Off-Camera Style
While Dreyer presents polished, fashion-forward appearances on camera, her off-air wardrobe contrasts dramatically. Between on-air segments, she wore sweatpants, sweatshirts, and a heated jacket for warmth. She walked extensively throughout the two-day event, making comfort a priority during downtime. Her camera-ready look emphasized coordinated colors, sparkle, and florals, while her off-set appearance prioritized practicality for the long broadcasting hours. 
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