The Derby might be a brief affair, but it offers a splendid excuse to indulge in festive celebrations. Typically, a Derby table is adorned with rich, bold colors and equestrian-themed decor, featuring deep reds, lush greens, and striking blacks, often complemented by elements like horse figurines and trophy replicas.
However, the table featured on this blog brings a refreshing twist to traditional Derby decor. It balances masculine touches with a softer palette, using lighter shades of green and white alongside pastel-colored hydrangeas and roses. This combination plus the addition of bold-colored place settings creates an inviting and elegant setting perfect for any Derby day gathering. Here is how to piece together an elegant, feminine, and masculine Derby table.
Derby Table Color Scheme Ideas
First, decide on your color theme. I loved the combination of greens and pinks on my table, and I thought they captured the feel of a Derby party quite well. This was a ladies’ Derby party and thats why I leaned into this soft palette. Popular color schemes for a Derby tablescape often draw inspiration from the race’s vibrant atmosphere and iconic imagery. Rich emerald greens, reminiscent of the lush racetrack, pair beautifully with classic black and white checks, echoing the traditional jockey silks. Gold accents are frequently incorporated to symbolize the coveted winner’s trophy, adding a touch of luxury and elegance.
Derby Table Decor
Decor ideas favor the equestrian theme, with horse motifs, miniature jockey hats, and rose garlands—the latter paying homage to the famous “Run for the Roses”—creating a spirited and thematic table setting. Mint julep cups filled with fresh mint, ornate chargers, and elegant stemware complete the look, ensuring a Derby celebration that is both stylish and festive. Our tablescape is filled with so many of these beautiful details. Let’s talk a bit more about how we achieved this soft and elegant look on our table.
Combine a Mix of Masculine and Feminine Colors
To cover the masculine and feminine yin and yang, you could use pastel florals and then more boldly colored table accents.
The Feminine Touch
I kept to the feminine side of things by working with beautiful pastel roses featured in trophy-looking vases. I loved the vase touch as it added a bit of that “award-winning” flare that we are looking for with Derby season.
The roses, though, really touched on the feminine side of things.
I drove this home with pastel-colored and patterned table linens. I love the combination of diamonds and stripes that the combination of this runner and tablecloth brought to the table.
You can further the feminine touch by featuring dainty glassware. The fluted Waterford wine glasses and the emerald goblets was glassware that covered both the elegant and feminine aspects of this decor.
The Masculine Touch
Then, for your masculine touch, opt for a bold place setting. I pieced together a bold, deep green charger with a bamboo-rimmed dinner plate and finished off the setting with a Derby-themed plate.
The overall feel has a masculine energy that is toned down by the femininity of the pastel florals.
Piecing Together the Details for a Non-Overwhelming Theme
What is a Derby table without horses, right? I found these gold statue horses and couldn’t help myself. They showed off the theme in an elegant way that added to the overall look of the table rather than stealing the show.
Another small detail that gave a nod to the theme was the leather napkin rings featuring small stirrup designs. They are perfect for the theme but do so in a way that is not overpowering to the entirety of the table.
This table with also be perfect to celebrate any equestrian lover. Hope you are inspired! Derby parties are also all about wearing gorgeous dresses and beautiful hats. I loved this emerald-colored dress and hat. Here are the links for both . If this inpired your Derby/equestrian inspired celebration, I would love to see it, please tag me at @ivoryandnoire, #inspiredbyivoryandnoire
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